Remembering Jim Leprino

DENVER – June 19, 2025 – James “Jim” G. Leprino passed away on June 19, 2025. He was a devoted family man, who cherished his time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchild, instilling in them his values of integrity, hard work and compassion. His love for his family was evident in everything he did, and he took immense pride in their accomplishments. 

He is survived by his beloved wife Donna; his daughters Gina (Daniel) Vecchiarelli and Terry Leprino; his granddaughters Gianna Vecchiarelli and Francesca (Geordie) Lukas; great-granddaughter, Sofia Lukas; as well as countless nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, Mike Sr. and Susie (Pergola), and siblings Lou, Mike Jr., Ange Testa and Marie Videtto. 

Jim was born in Denver, Colorado, in 1937, into a tight-knit family deeply rooted in the city’s Italian community. From an early age, his life was shaped by two constants: a deep devotion to his faith and an unwavering work ethic. His father, Mike Sr., had immigrated from Potenza, Italy, and in 1950 opened a small corner grocery store at 38th and Shoshone Street. In the back, the family began making ricotta and scamorza cheese by hand—serving neighbors with the same care and pride that would come to define their legacy. 

What began as a modest family venture steadily grew, and in 1956, Jim Leprino joined the business full-time. He helped lead its transformation from a small neighborhood shop into Leprino Foods Company — now the world’s largest producer of mozzarella cheese and a global leader in dairy ingredients. Guided by the values his father instilled — quality, service, competitive price and ethics — Jim’s visionary leadership shaped Leprino Foods into an industry powerhouse. 

Jim was known for his unwavering commitment to the people of Leprino, always ready to offer guidance, support and mentorship. He had a profound influence on countless lives—including his family, friends, customers, suppliers and the dairy industry. 

Jim wasn’t just a giant in the business world — he had a generous heart and a deep commitment to giving back. He never forgot the community that stood behind his family’s business through the years, and he gave freely to causes that helped others. He cared deeply about people’s well-being and was especially passionate about supporting medical and healthcare advancements that could make life better for future generations. 

Jim had a larger-than-life presence, and he will be deeply missed and forever remembered.