The Denison Press
Tuesday, January 22, 1935
pg.1

PAUL LEEPER, PIONEER OF DENISON, RESIDENT FOR 58 YEARS, DIES MONDAY NIGHT
Paul Waples Leeper, resident of Denison since childhood and pioneer builder of the city, died at 11:15 p.m. Monday at a local hospital following an illness of 5 weeks.  Mr. Leeper, who retired as head of the Hall-Leeper Hardware Co., here
in 1928, was in his 63rd year.  He resided at 609 W. Gandy street.
Mr. Leeper was born May 14, 1872 at Richmond, Missouri, son  of Mr. and Mrs. J.P. Leeper.  He came to Denison with his parents 58 years ago and received his early education here.  He later attended a military academy at Slaunton, Virginia. 
Mr. Leeper's father operated the first lumber yard in Denison, establishing the firm after he had contacted Katy railroad officials and ascertained their intention of building the road into Denison.  After returning from military school, Mr. Leeper was associated with his brother in  the hardware business.  The Hall-Leeper wholesale firm was later formed with Mr. Leeper serving as president and traveling representative.  He married Miss Stella Marratna here June 18, 1924.  His last place of business was at Chestnut street and Houston avenue.
Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Stella Leeper, Denison; 2 brothers, Edward D. and John B. Leeper, both of Denison; and 2 sisters, Miss Deli Leeper of Denison and Miss Rosa Leeper of Los Angeles, California.
Funeral services will be held at  2 p.m. Wednesday at Short-Murray chapel, Rev. S.M. Black officiating.  Burial will be at Fairview cemetery with Short-Murray funeral directors in charge.