04/10/2025

Obituary of John Douglas “Doug” Clepper

Retired Funeral Director/Owner of the Former Clepper Funeral Chapel

John Douglas "Doug" Clepper passed away peacefully at his home in Bradenton, Florida, on March 24, 2025. He was born on December 11, 1951, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Doug's life is best exemplified by the words of Albert Schweitzer: "The full measure of a man is not to be found in the man himself, but in the colors and textures that come alive in others because of him. The only thing of importance, when we depart, will be the traces of love we have left behind."

Doug's impact was profound, shaping the lives of his family, friends, kids in the old neighborhood, the families he served as a dedicated funeral director, and the numerous organizations he proudly led and supported.

He is a graduate of Withrow High School and the University of Cincinnati College of Mortuary Science. Doug was the owner of Clepper Funeral Chapel in Oakley, where he served his community with compassion, honesty, and integrity.

He married the love of his life and best friend, Kristie A. Clepper (née Ackermann), who preceded him in death. Together, they built a life centered on love and family values. Doug was a devoted father to Kristopher D. (Monica) Clepper and a loving grandfather to Michael (Megan) and Celina Clepper.

He is survived by his brothers Larry, Leonard, and Randy Fisher; his uncle Donald Taylor; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Sara Brayton (née Clepper); his brother, Robert Fisher; and his sisters, Janice Simpkins and Mary Biesbrook.

Doug was a dedicated Freemason who lived by the fraternity's principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. He was a Past Master of Oakley Lodge No. 668 F. & A.M., where he also served as Secretary for many years before earning the title of Secretary Emeritus. He was a Past President of the Society of Past Masters and a member of The Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Cincinnati. A longtime member of Syrian Shrine, he held several leadership roles and was honored as Trustee Emeritus, Past Director of the Mini Racers, and an Honorary Member of the Legion of Honor. He was also a member of the Eastern Hills Shrine Club and the Royal Order of Jesters.

Beyond his Masonic work, Doug was deeply involved in the Oakley Chamber of Commerce, working tirelessly as a steward of his community.

Doug will always be loved, forever cherished, and never forgotten.

Services:
The family will receive friends on Friday, April 11, 2025, from 5:00–9:00 PM, with Masonic Services at 8:45 PM, at Don Catchen & Sons Funeral Home (3525 Dixie Hwy, Elsmere, KY 41018).

A graveside service will take place on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Oak Hill Cemetery (11200 Princeton Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45246).

Memorial Contributions:
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Doug's name to: Shriners Children's Ohio Hospital, 1 Children's Plaza, 2 West, Dayton, OH 45404

Arrangements Entrusted To: Don Catchen & Sons Funeral Home, 3525 Dixie Hwy, Elsmere, KY 41018, (859) 342-4040 | www.catchen.com