Dolores Fern Lepiane

Dolores Fern Lepiane, 92, a lifelong resident of Walla Walla Valley, died January 29 at her home.

Dolores was born December 17, 1925, the 9th child of Christian and Katherine Hill, who immigrated from Walter Russia in the early 1900’s.

Dolores met her husband, Michael James Lepiane at a Catholic Youth Organization skating party in 1942.  They married October 27, 1945 and were wed 53 years before Mike’s passing in May 1999.

Dolores worked in the Dietary Department of Providence/St. Mary’s Hospital for 26 years.  She retired in 1991.  Prior to working at St. Mary’s, Dolores worked at night in order to be home during the days for her daughters.  She loved to sing while baking cookies and other goodies for her family.  The Cookie Jar was always full in “Dee’s Kitchen”.

Dolores enjoyed various creative outlets.  After taking a cake decorating class, she decorated many novelty cakes for family and friends.  She also enjoyed tole painting and ceramics and her girls have many special “Mom-made” gifts adorning their homes.

Dolores was very active in the Italian Heritage Association.  For many years, she baked and contributed her time to the Festa’s pastry booth.  Dolores and Mike co-hosted as Parade Marshalls in 1995 and she was awarded member of the year in 2006.

Dolores is survived by her 3 daughters, Katherine Dwyer (Gerald Jr.), Karen McCauley, and Karla Dayhuff (Larry); 6 grandchildren, Tamara, Gerald III, Angela, Michael James, Terence, and Andrew; and 9 great-grandchildren.  “Aunt Dee” is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews to the extent of being “great-great-great Aunt Dee”.

Viewing and Visitation will be held at the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home Friday, February 2, 2018 from 1:00PM until 7:00PM. The recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held at the Funeral Home Saturday, February 3, 2018 at 9:00AM followed by the Funeral Service at 10:00AM. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery Garden Mausoleum.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Walla Walla Community Hospice through the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder, Walla Walla, WA.