Minneapolis, MN - Donald Michael Tepper, 87, of Minneapolis—the City of Lakes he loved and never left—passed away peacefully December 1, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.

Born August 28, 1938, in Minneapolis to Russel and Muriel Tepper, Don was a proud graduate of Central High School, class of 1956. After high school, he proudly served his country in the United States Army Infantry. When he returned home, he began a 40-year career with the City of Minneapolis as a cement finisher and later supervisor in the street department—pouring and shaping the very streets, sidewalks, and curbs that wind through the city he called home.

Don married the love of his life, Sharlon, and together they built a big, loud, beautiful family in the same City of Lakes neighborhoods he grew up in. He was the devoted father of Kimberly, Carmen, Tanya, and Daniel; the proud grandpa ("Papa") of ten grandchildren; and the delighted great-grandpa of six great-grandchildren who brought him endless joy in his later years.

Don outlived his brothers Robert, Tom, and David, but carried their memories with him always.

If you knew Don, you knew laughter wasn't far behind. He had a quick wit, a mischievous grin, and a remarkable gift for making everyone feel like they belonged. An ace slow-pitch softball pitcher in his day, an avid hunter and fisherman (lakes and rivers were his playground), and a golfer ("kind of," he'd say with a wink), Don lived for the outdoors and the people he shared it with. Above all, he was a rock—always there when anyone needed him, no questions asked.

Don Tepper didn't just leave footprints in wet concrete across the City of Lakes; he left them on the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of Don's life will be held in spring 2026, more information to come. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests spending time with someone you love—because that's exactly what Don would have done.

We love you, Dad. We'll keep the coffee hot and the fishing stories ready until we see you again.