James N. Luper

7/17/1929 — 3/20/2026

Service Date: 3/27/2026
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In loving memory of “The Legend” — 1929-2026

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James N. Luper, 96, passed peacefully Friday, March 20, 2026, as a resident of Unique Senior Care in Lewiston. Jim was born July 17, 1929, in San Diego, to James G. and Lena B. Luper.

While in his early teens the family left San Diego for a farm, west of Great Falls, Mont. In 1944, his dad’s health forced a move to Lewiston. Jim graduated in 1947 from Lewiston High School. After a short stint with Homelite Corp., he took a job with Osterman Diesel working with both automotive and industrial electrical systems.

1951 was the year that Jim met and married Josephine Surry. A marriage that spanned 62 years, until her passing in 2013. Jim and Jo’s family consisted of six children, three boys and three girls.

Together they purchased Mohr and Lenz Auto Repair in 1956. Changing the name to Carburetor and Electric. They operated that business until 1994 when they passed it to their sons. Jim continued to work and help out into his early 90’s.

Community service has always been part of Jim and Jo’s lives. 4-H, Boy Scouts, Lewis-Clark State Automotive Advisory Board, Bengal Boosters, just to name a few. In 1973, Jim joined the Lewiston Lions Club, being actively involved for over 50 years. That also included a year serving as district governor, traveling most of the Pacific Northwest.

Jim also enjoyed building and racing boats on the Snake River. Earning him a dozen or so trophies. In 1962, they purchased a 25’ Owens Cabin Cruiser, accommodating a larger crew. They enjoyed many weekends on Lake Coeur d’Alene, along with many trips up the Snake River as far as the mouth of the Salmon always carrying an extra prop. Jim’s main passion was his work, he so much enjoyed helping people and making things work.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife Josephine, sister Kathleen Pickering and his parents.

He is survived by his children, James and Cathy Luper, of Clarkston, Richard and Mona Luper, of Temecula, Calif., Pam Luper, of Asotin, Shelley and Kevin Herinckx, of Banks, Ore., Daniel and Suzy Luper, of Orofino and Nicki Luper, of Clarkston; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Memorials in Jim’s honor may be sent to Lewis-Clark Lions Club at P.O. Box 272, Lewiston, ID 83501.

Vassar-Rawls Funeral Home of Lewiston is in charge of the arrangements.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Friday, March 27, at All Saints Catholic Church, 3330 14th St., Lewiston.