Fred Tepper died peacefully on April 4, 2021 at the Masonic Home in Cockeysville, MD. He was a proud Mason who considered the fraternal organization to be one of the most impactful collections of “menschen” with whom he had the privilege of associating. Born in Washington, D.C. on March 23, 1928 to Phillip and Bessie Tepper, he spent his early years in Los Angeles prior to his family’s return to Baltimore. Fred was a proud graduate of the University of Baltimore and served in the military during the Korean Conflict. Trained in accounting but preferring work in the Maryland Civil Service, he worked as a Section Chief and in the Department of the Environment.
Fred had many loves in his life: The Masonic Lodge, in which he became a 3rd Degree Master Mason, a 32 Degree Scottish Rite Mason, and served as Chaplain; his many years dedicated to growing and advocating for the sport of Table Tennis, running a USATT Club in Pikesville and mentoring scores of young, up-and-coming players; his Jewish heritage and the State of Israel. But for Fred, his greatest loves were his family: His wife and life partner of 66 years, Fran, to whom he was utterly devoted, particularly in her more challenging, final years; his brother Ted Tepper who possessed a similar, often cringe-worthy sense of humor; his children Cindy and Daniel Weiner, his grandchildren Julia and Benjamin Weiner, and his children Eileen and Bill Smyth, and grandson Nick Ziegler. Perhaps the role that gave him the most joy was to be their “Zaydie,” dispensing wisdom, jokes, and unqualified love to all who crossed his path. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.
A Virtual Funeral will be held on Wednesday, April 7th, 2021 at 1:30 pm.