William B. Leppala

CRESCENT VALLEY, Nev. - William B. "Bill" Leppala, 81, of Crescent Valley, died Sunday, Jan. 29, 2023. He died at home, in Nevada, at his home he had built out of straw bales on his 80 acres. He was surrounded by his family, including his wife, Patti, of 38 years.

Bill was born on Jan. 7, 1942, in Saxon, Wisconsin, to Bill Leppala and Margaret (Lindsey) Leppala. He had no siblings, but had a brotherly relationship with his cousin, Roger Lindsey, who resides in Ixonia, Wisconsin. Bill grew up in Saxon. He served in the Army National Guard.

He worked in the mining industry all his life and helped to make sure the equipment was safe for all. He was well known for his extensive knowledge of mining cranes, mine processes and operations, along with alternative off-grid energy. He was a lifelong student of mechanical engineering, both theory and practical.

Bill loved all his children and was known to always instill his beliefs in those who would take the time to listen to him. He was preceded in death by his parents; three of his daughters, Dana, Carole and Sandy; one grandson, Donald; and many of his beloved relatives and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Patti Leppala, Crescent Valley; and his children, Lori Leppala, Bellingham, Washington (with Pat Junti), Deb Irons, Hurley, Wisconsin, Dawn (Mike) McPherson, Ironwood, Michigan, Bill (Lisa) Leppala, Ironwood, Desiree (Lawrence) Grin, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin (with Diane Leppala); Elisa Cooper, Spokane, Washington, Justin Teague (Meagan Johnston), Crescent City, California, and Amanda Teague, Crescent Valley (with Patti Leppala).

He is also survived by his grandchildren, David, Amy, Becky, Mark, Ruth, Mark, Danielle, Dayanna, Michael, Max, Jay, Carli, Addison, Symon, Elias, Tobias, Harlin, Dylan, Braydan, Tyler and Calub; and 24 great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank everyone for their condolences and well wishes. A private ceremony will occur later this year with his immediate family. There will be a memorial sepulcher in the Saxon cemetery.