This summer marked a heartfelt milestone in Cedar Mill history: the 75th anniversary of a cherished family home that has stood as a hearth of warmth, tradition, and togetherness since 1950.

Nestled across the street from Cedar Mill Elementary School, the house was built by Ralph Leppert and his then 17-year-old son, Arnie Leppert. Hammer in hand, young Arnie helped raise the walls that would hold generations of laughter and love. Now, in a beautiful twist of time, Arnie celebrates his 90th birthday this year—an occasion that adds even more meaning to the home’s anniversary.

The home is currently owned by Karen Leppert-Gibson, Arnie’s daughter, who brought her young daughters to Cedar Mill to enjoy sleepy summers away from the heat of their Atlanta residence. Now living full-time in Cedar Mill, Karen has steadily added to the home’s charm while continuing the tradition of making it a gathering place for family and friends. Over the decades, its rooms and large backyard have echoed with the joy of birthday parties, the quiet reflection of memorial gatherings, and the warmth of Swedish Christmas celebrations. It’s a place where family stories are told—and people are loved.

A living archive of Cedar Mill’s evolving story, the house has witnessed the growth of the community, the joyful chorus of schoolchildren across the street, and the enduring bonds of a family deeply rooted in this special place. Ralph and Lydia Leppert’s vision of a home continues to thrive through Karen’s stewardship and the spirit of the generations who have gathered within its walls.

This family treasure stands as a reminder of what endures: the value of family, the importance of tradition, and the beauty of a home that welcomes all. Here’s to 75 years of memories—and to the many more yet to come. Happy 90th birthday to Arnie Leppert, the living heartbeat of his family’s beloved Cedar Mill legacy.