Theodore Allen Seppala passed from this life in the morning hours of September 12, 2026, at 96 years old.

Theodore was born on May 6, 1930, to Axel and Mamie Seppala. Following the death of his father, he and his brother were taken in by Gus and Annie Seppala for three years, and they introduced him to God’s love and promises. This love of God would later become of utmost importance to him.

He married the love of his life, Shirley Somero, on July 10th, 1954. They remained married for 54 years, until her death on July 8th, 2008. He missed her greatly up until his death, often talking about his beautiful bride. His children fondly remember the many camping trips they took as a family, and how he never went anywhere without a full carload of kids. Later in life, he and Shirley traveled frequently to visit their family, and to explore the national parks.

Theodore was a veteran of the Korean War. He was immensely proud of his service and frequently shared his stories with listeners; but he also struggled until his dying day with the many horrors he experienced on the battlefield. He would relate that during the War, he made a promise to his Lord that if he were to survive the conflict, he would embrace Jesus as his Saviour. Of the original detachment that left Fort Lewis in Washington, he was the only one to return home. Later, he was frequently found sitting at his kitchen table, ready to tell you stories of his life or to discuss his faith and Christianity. These conversations would often last into the early hours of the morning.

After coming home from Korea, he started as a furniture maker at Heywood & Wakefield. He then held various positions at Seppala & Aho Construction before becoming a safety supervisor there, known to be diligent and passionate about keeping his workers safe. He was a good cook and was known for his spaghetti and meatballs.

Not faultless like his Savior, he emulated His love, especially with his earthly treasures--- his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. With love, patience, and a supply of Dum Dum lollipops he won over even the shyest of them, and there always was a line of children waiting to give their “Lollipop Grandpa” a hug. However, his greatest desire was to go home to Heaven, and this was finally granted to him.

He is survived by his remaining children: William (Janis) Seppala, Mark (Kathy) Seppala, Cherri Seppala (widow of Gary), Tracy Seppala (widow of Bradley), Cheryl (Paul) Matson, Richard Seppala, Tanya (Walter) Matson, Carl Traffie (widower of Kara), Kent Seppala, Gordon (Kristina) Seppala, Deanna (Matthew) Olson, Walter (Sue) Seppala, Kristin (Paul) Seppanen, Mari (Stephen) Traffie, Peggy Seppala, Marty (Tara) Seppala, and Steven (Stephanie) Seppala; 129 grandchildren with one more on the way, 226 great-grandchildren, 15 great-great-grandchildren, and numerous others that he "adopted."

He was preceded in death by his wife Shirley, and sons Gary Seppala, Bradley Seppala, daughter Kara Traffie, granddaughter Danielle Matson, and great-grandson Rush Seppala.

Family and friends are warmly invited to calling hours on Sunday, September 20, 2026, from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at Apostolic Lutheran Church, 117 Goen Rd, New Ipswich. 

His funeral service will be on Monday, September 21, at 10:00am, at Apostolic Lutheran Church. 

He will be laid to rest at Smithville Cemetery, New Ipswich.