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Joseph Lepley Obituary
Joe Lepley, 70, of Galesville, WI, died peacefully after a brief illness on August 31, 2022. He was originally from Tulsa, OK and graduated from Bishop Kelley High School in 1970. As a member of the cross country and track teams he won several state championships at various distances, one of which was the 800-meter run. To this day he still holds the school record in that event. He attended the University of Notre Dame and completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1975. Joe played lacrosse at Notre Dame and some of his fondest memories were the trips he enjoyed with fellow teammates competing against teams from the Midwest and the western US. After completing his Master of Education degree at the University of St. Thomas he began his teaching career in Winona, MN. Joe was a special friend, teacher and mentor to his many students and colleagues during his 35 years of teaching in Winona.
Joe loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman and was a member of Trout Unlimited. One of his most memorable trips was to Alaska where he and his fellow anglers caught king salmon and halibut. Whether hosting his annual Fourth of July croquet tournament or winter games, grilling venison, or playing with his golden retriever named "Tulsa", Joe was happiest when out on his farm enjoying the company of his friends.
Joe was predeceased by his parents, Gladys and Jim Lepley. He is survived by his sisters Cyndi Lepley and Vicki Gally (Gary); his brothers Peter Lepley Wilson (Michael) and Jim Lepley (Cathy); and several nieces and nephews. Donations in his memory may be made to Winona International Friendship Association 207 Lafayette St, Winona, MN 55987
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Lepley
Phil Sievers
September 1, 2024
Another reflection...
I was a high school friend of Joe´s and later shared many experiences during graduate school together in Minnesota. I was just out wandering and fishing the other day and reminisced about many of the days he was making me laugh. He was such a good man. I´m so glad he was here. Sending love to all of his family as I, remember them at Kelley HS in Tulsa.
Neil moynihan
September 1, 2024
I attended grade school at the Madeline where Joe was one year ahead of me. Super guy always treated me like I was one of his best friends. Sorry to hear you´re passing my friend, but we´re all getting there faster than others in peace.
Steph LaQua
December 11, 2022
I will never forget Joe´s coaching and teaching at Cotter and his dedication to so many athletes and students. He was a true champion. Joe once made me an audio cassette outlining the keys to victory to prepare for the track and field State Championships, narrating a story about envisioning victory, seizing momentum, and what it means to be a teammate. The lessons he taught applied not only to sports but to life. He always believed in us and that made all the difference. I saw him in Winona a few years back and told him so. I am sorry for your loss. He leaves behind a legacy in inspiring others.
Bob Bartz
October 13, 2022
Joe was a student teacher when I was in 8th grade at St. Mary's grade school. We became friends after I returned to Winona as an adult. My children traveled to Misato Japan with him and we participated in countless events to support the Sister City of Misato. Joe always and constantly gave of himself so that others could have wonderful experiences. RIP Joe. You will be missed!
Phil Sievers
October 10, 2022
Condolences to Joe`s family. It was a gift to those who met him, worked with him and traveled through life with him. He brought joy to those he met and he will be missed dearly.
Phil Sievers & Terri Kendle Sievers
Brenda Boettcher (Bischel)
September 25, 2022
Mr. Lepley; Joe, it was quite a shock to find out that you had passed, On behalf of one of your closest friends, Floyd and Barb Bischel we will never forget your positive energy, your patience with us as your students, and your overall fun-loving outlook on life. I wouldn't doubt it if you and Barb were having 1-on-1half-court basketball games while my dad, Floyd, sits on the side smiling from ear to ear in amusement. The St,Mary's Church has its River City Festival on October 9th, and I will go and buy something like a plant to bring home to remember the THREE MUSKETEERS together.
Celine Fitzmaurice
September 20, 2022
Joe was a gifted coach for our Cotter high school track and cross country teams. He always encouraged us to dig deep and believe in ourselves. He had a real influence on me as a young person and I am grateful for the many lessons he shared.
Aidan P Fitzmaurice
September 20, 2022
hi my name is aidan fitzmaurice and i feel a great loss today learning of joes passing. I attended st marys grade school and cotter high school and was blessed to have joe as a teacher and a coach. He convinced me to run cross country my senior year and and looking back it was by far the highlite of my high school experience. rip a great man
Karen Hoover
September 14, 2022
I am so sorry for your loss. Teaching with Joe was always fun! His infectious smile will remain one of my best memories of Joe.
sister Christine Stanoch
September 10, 2022
I worked with Joe at St Mary's School , Winona ,MN. He was a creative teacher and was a friend. We shared great days together. I have lost touch of him, but someone in the area sent me his obit. I will never forget him. He often shared pecans from Oklahoma. He made the world a better place and touched the lives of many especially mine. Thank you , Joe, may you rest in peace.
Jay Williams
September 10, 2022
Sticks up for a really good person and one of many great teammates on the Irish Lax Club.
Julie Plaisance Denzer
September 8, 2022
I was blessed to have Joe as a teacher, coach, and friend. He was highly respected, smart, and funny. Rest in Peace.
The Barths
September 8, 2022
Joe was a great guy and a great neighbor (Woody & Tulsa also :) ). Our little dead end road will never be the same. I know you are still enjoying the outdoors! Our thoughts are with his family. - Barths
Joe Sweeney
September 8, 2022
I lived with Joe on Winona's Broadway Street, some 43 years ago, and his way with words and welcoming of others remain memorable! May he rest In peace.
Neil moynihan
September 8, 2022
I attended Madalene Catholic elementary school with Joe! Good man, sorry for his passing but a life well lived!
T.J Carney
September 8, 2022
It is sad to see that one of those that helped me gain in LAX has passed on. I have kind memories, and now look back on those times with more fondness.
john corcoran
September 8, 2022
i met joe at Notre Dame. Joe was natural-fit with everyone...... always showing-up with his signature beat-up durango straw cowboy hat. he never missed a lacrosse practice and played goalie for the Irish. After graduation, he built his life around leading young people to venture outside their comfort zones and learn something new & different. I beleive that is a task God wants everyone to complete. today, "Lil 'Joe" is in a better place......where summers are endless and fishing is epic. We will meet again my friend. Carry-on to the Lepley family . i pray that you will find peace and strength from positive things Joe completed......john corcoran. ND class of 1975.
Deacon Steve Martinez
September 8, 2022
Deacon Steve Martinez
September 8, 2022
Deacon Steve Martinez
September 8, 2022
Deacon Steve Martinez
September 8, 2022
My condolences to the family. Joe lived an amazing life that will live on in many that he touched along his journey. I vaguely remember him from ND Lax...he was a senior when I was a freshman in the 1974-1975 school year.
Eternal rest grant unto Joe, Oh Lord.
May perpetual life shine upon him!
May he Rest In Peace.
Amen!
Deacon Steve Martinez, ND `78
Gary Mills
September 7, 2022
Joe was an outstanding coach and teacher! Did so many good things for his students! So sorry to hear of his passing
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