Memorial

John Kepler, 77 passed away Monday, June 6th at West Ridge Care Center from complications related to Parkinsons.

He was born May 4th, 1939 in Cedar Rapids to Charles and Margaret (McCune) Kepler.   He was raised in a home near the Cedar River and taught the love of fishing and the outdoors.  After graduating from Jefferson High School in 1958, he enlisted in the US. Navy, stationed in Japan and honorably discharged in 1960.  Jack was appointed to the C.R. Fire Department in 1961, promoted through the ranks to District Chief in July, 1977.  He retired from the department in July of 1994.  Jack was an avid fisherman, hunter and lover of the outdoors.  He spent most of his retirement years enjoying the river in Guttenburg, IA with his friends Al, Francis, and “Woody.”  He loved his family and time spent with grandchildren; a source of encouragement and support to all.  Jack was also a past member of the American Trapshooting Association, Ottercreek Gun Club and Ducks Unlimited.  

He is survived by his wife of 53 years Ellen (Sulek) Kepler, two daughters Cherie (Robert) Marriott and Kim (Eric) Stenberg,

five grandchildren Matt and Emily Marriott, and Tony, Jake and Anna Stenberg.  Also surviving is brother in law Leon Sulek, two nieces and their children.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister in law Diana Sulek.  

There will be a visitation at the Cedar Memorial Chapel Stateroom on Thursday, June 9th at 4 pm.  Funeral Services will be held on Friday, June 10th at 11 am at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories.  

Instead of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to the Cedar Rapids Fire Department (Honor Guard or Museum) or Mercy Medical Center Hospice of Cedar Rapids.