John Hepler Obituary

John Dean Hepler of Colorado Springs passed away at home on Wednesday, February 25, 2015.  His wife and son were by his side. 

John is survived by his wife, Nora; four sons, Johnny, Robert, Josh and Mitchell; a daughter, Sara; two grandsons, Dylan and Brendan; and one granddaughter, Ellery.  John leaves behind his sister, Sheri;  brothers, Jim and Sam; his mother, Mary Ann; and stepfather, James Ivy of Texas.  In addition, John is survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews and Uncle Jerry O'nesky of Oklahoma, who John considered "my big brother."  Also mourning John's passing are his mother-in-law, Rodona; daughters-in-law, Trish and Nicole; and countless treasured friends. 

John was preceded in death by two uncles, Eddie and Floyd O'nesky; and his beloved grandparents, John and Gladys O'nesky.  John believed Grandma would be "holding the light" for him as he passed.

John will be remembered for his sense of humor, his bigger-than-life personality, and his love of music.  He was an avid fisherman and loved to camp.  John was a veteran of the U.S. Navy and a member of Fountain Valley Baptist Church where he and Nora were married in 2010 after an 18 year long courtship.  His mother recalls "how happy" John was at this time and his son Robert recalls "I've never seen my dad happier."  Brother Mike Dziolek, who conducted the ceremony and his wife Penni provided great friendship and comfort to John during his illness. 

As requested by John, a memorial service will be held at the church pending the arrival of "fishing weather." 

John was a cherished husband, Dad, son, brother and friend.  He will be greatly and forever missed by those who loved him and by those he loved. 

A special thank you is extended to the ladies of Interim Hospice, Kate, Joy, Michelle, and Jodi, for the loving care provided John during this transition.