Roy J Tepe

Roy Tepe , 92, passed away on May 24, 2026 at Hubbard Hill Living Wisdom Community in Elkhart IN. He was born into a family of jewelers in South Bend, IN on August 12, 1933. As a young boy, Roy and his brother Elmer were deeply immersed in the family jewelry business, learning the trade from their father. A poignant moment in Roy’s life came when he was a sophomore in high school. His father took him and Elmer out to lunch and shared that the business would one day be theirs, imparting a strong work ethic by telling them that while they might not become rich, they could earn a good living and support a family if they worked hard. Tragically, within three months of that lunch their father passed away, leaving the brothers to take over the business.
 
Despite the challenges, including both brothers being drafted into service, Roy and Elmer persevered. In 1960, they opened the first Tepe's store in South Bend on South Main Street. Over the course of the next 31 years, they expanded the business to nine additional stores throughout Indiana and Michigan employing over 700 people. Customer service was the foundation of their success.
 
Roy Tepe’s story is one of resilience, love and embracing new chapters. He is survived by his 3 children Roy Jr. (Tina) Tepe, Maureen (Doug) Fraser and Kirk (Diana) Tepe; 6 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.  Preceding him in death were his parents; wife, Sheila Tepe; sisters, Shirley (Desmond) Bisley,  Nancy (Tom) Sikora; and brother, Elmer (Dolores) Tepe. 
 
Roy loved his winters in Florida, summers at Magician Lake, and fishing at the pond which was normally followed by his famous fish fry. His real joy was spending time with family. Roy was an Army Veteran who served during the Korean War.
 
A private service is planned for immediate family, to honor Roy’s wishes. 

In Roy's memory, memorial donations may be made to Ave Maria University, Advancement Office, 5050 Ave Maria Blvd., Ave Maria, FL 34142 or to the donor's choice.

In keeping with Roy’s sense of humor and straightforward nature, he wished to leave these words behind:
“I died, I’m dead, hope to see you all in the next world.”

Palmer Funeral Home - Hickey Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.Palmerfuneralhomes.com.