Dennis L. Lepiane

Dennis L. Lepiane was born on August 22, 1947, at the old Walla Walla General Hospital to John A. and Ruth E. (May) Lepiane. He died Friday, March 27, 2026, at Regency at the Park in College Place following a lengthy and courageous battle with diabetes and renal failure.

A lifelong member of the Walla Walla community, Dennis graduated from Walla Walla High School in 1965. Subsequently, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Walla Walla College (now University) in 1974. His commitment to education reflected the steady determination that would define both his career and his character.

Dennis began his law enforcement career in 1972 as a dispatcher for the College Place Police Department. He joined the reserve ranks soon thereafter and accepted a full-time position as a police officer in 1975. In 1978, at a remarkably young age and brief time on the job, he was appointed Chief of Police—a role he carried with integrity, intelligence, and steady leadership until his retirement in 2016. Throughout his years of service, Dennis was deeply committed to professionalism and advancing the field of criminal investigation. Fascinated by the behavioral sciences—particularly the study of violent offenders—one of the highlights of his career was attending the FBI National Police Academy 11-week course in Quantico, Virginia, in 1998. He shared his knowledge and interest by organizing and leading violent crime seminars for law enforcement agencies in the Walla Walla Valley, bringing in specially trained homicide investigators from Quantico and elsewhere, including acclaimed true crime author Anne Rule. He made the opportunity to interview two convicted serial killers, hoping to gain insight into their thought processes. His dedication to justice left a lasting mark on his department and his community.

While Dennis devoted himself to serious and meaningful work, those who knew him best cherished his humor and playful spirit. He loved baseball and played Pony League as a youngster, proudly showing off newspaper articles about his achievements to anyone interested. He was a loyal New York Yankees fan, and a highlight of his life was the opportunity to attend several games at Yankee Stadium. He never hesitated to cheer for his team—even in Seattle at Mariner games—much to the amused embarrassment of friends and his son-in-law.

He found peace along the Oregon Coast, patiently searching the beaches for the elusive blue agate he treasured so much. A devoted fan of 1960s rock, Dennis traveled throughout the Pacific Northwest to attend Paul Revere and the Raiders concerts. He passionately defended his belief that they were the greatest rock band ever formed, engaging in spirited debates that often left his daughter shaking her head with a smile. He also loved classic television, especially The Andy Griffith Show and The Dick Van Dyke Show, sharing those timeless favorites with his daughter and passing along not only his sense of humor but his appreciation for simpler times. His love of animals, especially the four-legged canine and feline family members who shared his life, was deep and unwavering.

Dennis met the love of his life, Carole Krogstad, through their shared work as dispatchers—Carole with the WW County Sheriff’s Office and Dennis with College Place PD. They were married in 1976, building a partnership rooted in mutual respect, laughter, and unwavering support. In 1986, they welcomed their daughter, Jaymie, who was the pride and joy of Dennis’s life. That love was duplicated upon the arrival of grandson Trevor, whom he proudly called “the little grandson.”

Dennis had a quiet but strong spiritual faith as well and relied heavily on God’s support in the difficult times of his life, especially in leading him as a young and inexperienced police chief.

Dennis is survived by his devoted wife, Carole; his beloved daughter, Jaymie; his sister, Annette (Lepiane) Jeske; his brother, Darrel (Barbara) Lepiane; along with nieces, a nephew, a great niece and nephew, and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ruth, and brother-in-law, Kevin Ireland.

Dennis will be remembered as a dedicated public servant, a lifelong learner, a loyal friend, and, most importantly, a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His legacy of service, strength, humor, and heart will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Chapel of the Herring Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla. Interment will follow at Blue Mountain Memorial Gardens.

Memorial donations may be made to the Blue Mountain Humane Society, the American Diabetes Association, or a charity of the donor’s choice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W Alder St, Walla Walla, WA 99362. Friends and family are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.herringgroseclose.com.