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With sadness, we share that Lowell Kleppe died peacefully at home, surrounded by family on Tuesday, July 25, 2023. He was 86-years-old and was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Hedvig, and his brother, Richard Kleppe. Lowell lived a good and honorable life and loved his family. He was a man of integrity, intelligence, and wit. He loved life and had tremendous curiosity. A life-long learner who encouraged others to keep learning, Lowell earned an undergraduate degree from Luther College in his beloved Decorah, Iowa, and graduate degrees from Vanderbilt University and University of Wisconsin-Superior and pursued further graduate studies at University of California-Berkeley. Mr. Kleppe taught Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry for the Wayzata School District for 37 years. To help make the scientific process more fun, he used wooly bear caterpillar stripe measurement to, perhaps, predict winter weather. Additionally, he was an announcer of soccer, videographer of football, timer for hockey, coach for track and field, and director of ski club. Throughout his lifetime Lowell explored many interests. When he and his wife of 58 years, Barbara, weren't traveling, he loved jazz, skiing, hunting, golf, wine-making, and the Sunday comics. Lowell was an active member and volunteer at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church (Minneapolis) and its Cathedral of the Pines camp. He was proud of his Norwegian heritage and enjoyed his Norske Torske Klubben and stories about the old country. He was a board member of Groveland Cemetery in Minnetonka, where he will be laid to rest. Lowell was a loving and devoted husband and remarkable father who guided and cared for us throughout our lives. He was a loyal and fun-loving friend, neighbor, and grandfather. Lowell lived a joyful life and never lost his sense of humor, love for puns, or the twinkle in his eye. His family thanks his caregivers. Lowell leaves behind his beloved wife Barbara Kleppe (Lampe), daughter Anne (Richard Newquist and granddaughter Ingrid), son John (Annie Stires) and daughter Sarah (Corey Bartlett). Lowell worked hard and lived a productive life that touched many in the community. All are welcome to join us to reflect on the good memories we have of Lowell. A service at 2 p.m. with visitation to follow until 5 p.m. is planned for Monday August 7, 2023 at David Lee Funeral Home (1220 East Wayzata Boulevard, Wayzata, Minnesota).

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Memorial Service notice for 86-year-old Lowell Kleppe of Wayzata, Minn. formerly of Decorah, Iowa