A native of Provo, Utah,[1] Paepke had a 15-year playing career as a combination pitcher and catcher, with three seasons missed during World War II.

He began his career in the Brooklyn Dodgers' organization with Santa Barbara in the California League during the 1941 season.

After a brief stint back in Santa Barbara, Paepke played for the Hollywood Stars in the Pacific Coast League through the 1951 campaign.

Along the way he made stops as skipper of the Billings Mustangs, Salinas Packers, Kinston Eagles, Jamestown Falcons, Grand Forks Chiefs, San Jose Pirates and Las Vegas Wranglers.

His son Dennis, a catcher, played in all or parts of four seasons in the major leagues for the Kansas City Royals.