Percy F. Stepon was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, farmer and friend. He passed away on July 4th, 2018 in Ephrata, WA. A scholarship fund has been created in his name to honor the exemplary life he led and the impact he made on those he touched throughout his lifetime.
Percy was born to Charles and Mary Lou Stepon on July 22, 1927 in Wenatchee. He was raised in Quincy and graduated from Quincy High School in 1946. After graduation, Percy worked on his father’s ranch and as a truck driver and header operator on combines in the area. During this time, Percy met his wife, Lee. Throughout an adventure-filled life, they remained deeply in love and the best of friends. Percy and Lee began their life together on the ranch and he later joined the Air Force. After his discharge they returned to Grant County. He worked as a truck driver and grader operator, eventually moving the family to Ellensburg where he earned his teaching degree. Percy taught school in Ephrata for 30 years. During that time he also worked at local gas stations and farms. Percy loved wheat farming and spent his summers in the wheat fields working for dear family friends.
Percy and Lee raised 2 daughters and a son in Ephrata, Linda Reynolds (Stepon), Cathy Motzkus (Stepon) and Randy Stepon. They were very involved in all of their kids’ activities through the years. After his retirement, Percy and Lee enjoyed traveling in their 5th wheel. Percy was always reading, often guiding and encouraging kids on the importance and fun of reading. Percy also loved the outdoors, hunting and exploring the hills with his son and grandsons.
A quiet, humble, gentle and resilient soul, Percy led the way for his family with faith, courage, humor and a positive approach to life’s challenges. Not a rattlesnake bite as a teenager, polio in the Air Force, or a bout with cancer in his later years could keep him from living a full and happy life with strength, wisdom and generosity.
Percy’s family has established the Percy F. Stepon Memorial Scholarship to support Ephrata High School graduates who pursue a degree in the field of Education. For those who wish to honor Percy’s memory, please consider sending donations to the following address:
Percy F. Stepon Memorial Scholarship
c/o Paul Lauzier Foundation
P.O. Box 1230
Ephrata, WA 98823
Please make checks payable to Lauzier Scholarship Foundation/Stepon.
To apply, please visit the Ephrata High School scholarship page at esdehs.ss18.sharpschool.com.