Julie Ann (Walter) Lepper

Julie Ann Lepper, 80, of East Leroy, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026 with her family by her side.

Julie was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, on January 17, 1946, to John and Edythe (Whitney) Walter. She was a lifelong resident of the Battle Creek area and a proud graduate of Harper Creek High School, Class of 1964. Following graduation, Julie attended Butterworth Nursing School.

Julie married Gerald Fountain in 1966. Together they had one son (Greg), who survives.

In 1981, Julie married Darrell Lepper. Together they built a life filled with love, friendship, and cherished memories. They loved living on Sonoma Lake, where they enjoyed skiing, boating and hosting family and friends. Julie took great pride in her home and especially loved caring for her yard, which she kept beautifully groomed.

Julie and Darrell were the originators of Shipshewana On The Road, a venture that brought them great joy and allowed them to travel and connect with countless people throughout the years.

Julie was preceded in death by her parents, John and Edythe Walter (2009 and 2020); her beloved husband of 31 years, Darrell Lepper (2013); and her sister, Rebecca Comport (2020).

In 2015, Julie met Denny Franck. They spent the past 10 years sharing friendship, laughter, and companionship.

Julie loved keeping up with current events, catching up with friends and watching cooking shows. She was always listening and always learning. She loved watching the birds and critters outside. She loved getting her nails done. Though she no longer attended the shows, she was proud of their success. She remained a silent partner, always eager to ask about the shows, keep a keen eye on company operations and offer her opinion. Those who knew Julie, knew that she would always offer her opinion. She could be tough on the outside, but underneath she had a deep love and appreciation for the ones she loved the most.

Julie is survived by her son, Greg (Eileen) Fountain; granddaughter, Allyson Fountain; brother-in-law, Kenneth Comport; niece, Wendi (Mark) Donahue; her longtime companion, Denny Franck, and many dear friends, family members, and business associates.

Visitation will be at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 105 Capital Ave NE, Battle Creek, MI 49017 on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Thursday, May 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  Funeral services to celebrate Julie's life will be Thursday, May 21 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home, officiated by Rev. Thomas E. Pumford.  Interment will follow at Floral Lawn Memorial Gardens, 1490 E. Michigan Ave., Battle Creek, MI 49014.  

Please join us for a luncheon after the service at the Riverside Banquet Center, 245 E Columbia Ave, Battle Creek, MI.

You may leave personal memories or messages for the family at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.