Charles Edward Leeper

Charles Edward Leeper Jr. "Duke", 88, passed away Thursday February 21, 2019 at his home in Acme, Pennsylvania. He was born on Born September 19, 1930 in Belle Vernon the son of Charles Edward Leeper (Casey) and Pauline DuBarr Leeper Wilkins. Duke was a 1946 Graduate of Hurst High School, U.S Army Veteran serving in the Korean War. He then dedicated years in the partnership of Fretts & Leeper Construction Company, proudly constructing and renovating many commercial buildings in the local and surrounding areas. Duke lived life to the fullest. He had many hobbies including wood working, building furniture, and refinishing antique furniture. He also was interested in antiques, which he acquired a unique collection of antique school bells. He became a self taught World Class artist. He carved beautiful pieces mostly focusing on songbirds. He entered these in the Woodcarving Competitions, winning many First Place awards. He was a Member of the Keystone Carving Club where he shared his talents and taught carving classes. He loved being outdoors; he had a lifelong passion for hunting and fishing. He received the Triple Trophy Award, was member of the .30-06 Club and the Wild Turkey Federation. In his interest in fishing he became a licensed captain and created Rocky Top Charter Fishing based out of Olcott, NY, chartering many memorable fishing trips. His favorite times were those simple pleasures in life, camping, gardening, walking his dog, and spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren play. He is survived by his devoted wife Betzy A. Thorne Leeper of 36 years, his faithful pet Sara, four children, Sharon DiNicola (James), Leslie Weir (Greg) both of Acme, Connie Leeper Baker of Latrobe, Mark C. Leeper (Desiree) of Gambrills MD, "Pap" to six grandchildren Christy DiNicola Fitzgerald (David) Kathy DiNicola King (Chris), James Jonathan DiNicola, Timothy Weir (Michelle Pocratsky), Danielle Weir Oswald (David) and Cody Leeper (Jordyn Chamberlain) and nine great grandchildren. A sister Jacqueline J. Hoke of Acme. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Delores Jean Beitel Leeper, step father Oscar Wilkins, a brother William Leeper, sister in law Renate Leeper, brother in law Donald D. Hoke Sr. and a nephew Donald D. Hoke Jr. Visitation for family and friends will be held from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8PM Monday February 25, 2019 at SALOOM-REGA FUNERAL SERVICE 730 W. Main Street Mt. Pleasant and Tuesday, February 26, 2019 at the New Stanton United Methodist Church, where he was a member, from 10am until the time of service at 11am. Military honors will be conducted immediately following the service at the church by American Legion Post 446 Mt. Pleasant. Interment will be in the Fairview Cemetery.The family sends a special heartfelt thank you to all the caregivers who helped with this journey. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, please donate to one of Duke's passions, the Fairview Cemetery 1278 Kecksburg Road Mt. Pleasant, PA 15666, to a favorite charity or practice a random act of kindness in his honor. Please visit Duke's online memorial at www.saloom-rega.com to sign the condolence guestbook. Richard Rega, funeral director.