Darian “Dary” Liepelt, 84

Dary Liepelt

Darian Dean “Dary” Liepelt departed in his sleep and left for his final fishing trip on Dec. 7, 2023, at Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane, Wash. He was 84.

Dary was born to Ruben and Vivian Liepelt on Jan. 29, 1939, the second of three children, in Freeman, S.D. He was preceded in his passing by his older brother, Delroy (Del), and survived by his fishing partner and younger sister, Deola.

Dary lived a full and accomplished life. He was a career Air Force technician maintaining aircraft ranging from the F-105 to the C-130, and his career took him to places like Thailand where he served in the Vietnam War, Okinawa, Puerto Rico, and several stateside assignments, where he led and instructed countless airmen. He retired a Senior Master Sergeant at Fairchild in 1978. In addition, he earned a degree in HVAC enabling him to start his thriving North Pacific HVAC Air Conditioning Refrigeration Company.

He was an avid reader and novice military historian, a licensed gunsmith, a skilled auto mechanic restoring numerous vehicles, and above all an outdoorsman. The only thing he loved more than hunting deer was fishing. As a fisherman, he had few equals. If the weather permitted and there was a place to fish nearby, he’d be fishing.

Dary affected countless lives with his wide-ranging skills and broad experience. Beyond his family, he also had many friends he met in the Air Force, at Church, or fishing. He was generous with his time and resources to people in need, often donating to families in need, or providing eggs from his chickens. If he had something that someone needed, he was quick to help.

Dary had a strong impact on his rich and diverse family. At his side, throughout his journey of life was his beloved wife, Alana, who provided strong and unwavering love and support throughout their life together. They built a life overflowing with shared experiences and cherished moments. He is survived by all of his children: Robert and Michael Liepelt, Dion and Denise Haught, and Debra Brown. He has nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. All their lives have been positively influenced by his love, teaching, and experience.

Dary’s passing creates a void in the lives of all who called him Husband, Dad, Brother, and Friend. But he left everyone he met with a piece of himself, so he will always be with us. But if he was here, he would say that if he couldn’t be outside working or fishing then it would be time to go. Rest assured, he’s enjoying the best fishing trip he’s ever had, standing on the bank of a lake, squinting his eyes from the reflected sunlight off the wave tops. Look, he’s got another bite …

We love and miss you.