Leland Joseph Jepson

Resident of San Jose Leland Joseph Jepson passed away on July 3, 2024 in his home in San Jose, California. He was 93. Born in San Jose to Vivian DiSalvo and Marinus Jepson, Lee met Theresa, the love of his life, at the age of 15 while attending SJ High School. There, his physical prowess as an undefeated wrestler for two years, earned him the nicknames “Cowboy” and “Iron-Man Jepson.” He earned all-county honors as a TE and DE for the Bulldogs, proudly stating, “no one ever got past me.” Not defined by sports alone, Lee joined the Milpitas Ramblers, a four-man singing group known for entertaining the student body with their renditions of popular tunes of the day. Thanks to his genuine nature and quick sense of humor, Lee made many lifelong friends at SJHS. Although recruited by Cal Poly, he decided to stay close to home, and Lee and Tree were married in 1951. After attending San Mateo Junior college, he worked at Kilpatrick’s Bakery, before channeling his baking talents to found his own business, Dutch Girl Donuts. He then moved to Wonder Bread Bakery, where he worked as a route salesman until his retirement. Lee had a nickname for every family member, was a prolific source of original puns, and played a mean game of Pedro. A man of many interests, Lee was an avid 49ers and boxing fan. He loved brisk walks through his Evergreen neighborhood, and travel with friends and family, including cross-country road trips. As a teenager, listening to the radio, Lee developed a love of classical music which brought him joy throughout his life. He loved poetry, classic literature, and collecting rare books, and enjoyed searching for art treasures at local antique and thrift shops. Leland is survived by his wife of 73 years, Theresa Jepson; his sister, Joyce Hettiger; his daughters, Terry Hicks (Michael) and Diane Bullis (Charles); his sons, David Jepson (Stacey), Thomas Jepson, and Daniel Jepson; his grandchildren, Kari Hicks, Colton Jepson, Michael Hicks, Kayla Ivory (Zach), Amanda Bullis, Johnathan Bullis, Laci Jepson, and Lauren Jepson; his great grandchildren, Robbie, Christian, and Charlotte Ivory; as well as loving nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers Stanley Jepson and Dale Jepson. Leland was a very humble man who didn’t realize his greatness; a man of wisdom and wit.

Leland Joseph Jepson

March 19, 1931 - July 3, 2024