Led rich life, competed athletically despite disability

Donald H. Leppen led a full, active life.

Between his daily job at Lambs Farm, competing in Special Olympics and taking regular social outings with the Center for Enriched Living in Riverwoods, he loved all of it.

Along the way, family members say, he touched the lives of everyone he met, with his "gentle spirit and loving heart."

Now, those he touched are mourning his passing. Mr. Leppen died Thursday at the age of 58.

Mr. Leppen grew up in Waukegan, years before state officials mandated education for children with disabilities.

Consequently, his parents, Arthur and Vienna Leppen, lobbied Waukegan school officials for some sort of educational program for their son.

When Mr. Leppen turned 16, he moved downstate to Beverly Farms in Godfrey, Ill., near St. Louis. The 300-acre rural setting offered him many opportunities, family members say, both socially and intellectually.

He learned to work in its sheltered workshop, but also helped out in the gift shop, while staying busy with the center's gardening program and its sports activities -- including bowling, swimming and horseback riding.

"He loved it there," says his brother, Michael Leppen of Glencoe. "They'd go to the opera and to the Cardinal games. They were very much included in the community there."

Ten years ago, Mr. Leppen moved to Lambs Farm in Libertyville to be closer to his family. Once again, he found that same sort of community feeling at the residential facility. He worked in its vocational workshop, and he loved all the activities it offered, including the trips.

One of his favorites was a visit to Graceland Mansion in Memphis to see the home of his hero, Elvis Presley.

On Friday nights, Mr. Leppen enjoyed regular outings organized by the Center for Enriched Living, adding to his already busy schedule training for Special Olympics, including competing in bowling, swimming and track-and-field events.

"I have a whole collection of his medals," his brother says.

In recent years, Mr. Leppen moved into Lambs Farm's intermediate care facility, once again finding plenty to do in its activity room.

Two months ago, Mr. Leppen moved to The Wealshire assisted living facility in Lincolnshire, where he was its first Down syndrome resident.

"He had a wonderful life," his brother says. "We were very blessed."

Besides his brother, Mr. Leppen is survived by his mother, Vienna, of Vernon Hills, and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will take place at 10 a.m. today at First Apostolic Lutheran church, 39372 Carol Lane in Beach Park.