Elida Tepper | Obituary

Elida Mjaavatten Tepper

1933 – 2025

Elida Tepper passed away peacefully at home on October 11, 2025. She was 91 years old. Born and raised in Tvedestrand, Norway, Elida moved to the United States after marrying her true love, Donald Tepper. After leaving her homeland and her dental career, she was a loving wife and mother to her three children, Jan, Ellen, and Michael. After her children left home, Elida began another mini-career, working at West Mercer Elementary School as a playground supervisor and teachers assistant where she was beloved by both students and faculty members.

Elida was an avid traveler for her entire life and enjoyed trips to places near and far, as well as living abroad with her family for several years along the way. She had a gift and a passion for languages and could be heard speaking Norwegian, English, French, German, Hebrew, Italian, and Spanish at various points in her life and adventures.

She was a founding member of the SoleMates walking club, where her love of language earned her the title of Poet Laureate. She also was a dedicated volunteer at the Nordic Heritage Museum in Ballard for many years. Elida is remembered for her kindness, genuine concern and compassion for others, her bright smile, and her love of life. She is survived by her three children and their spouses, her brother Are, and her three grandchildren.