Walter A. Kepner

Walter A. Kepner, 76, of Urbana, MO and formerly of Manteno, IL, died on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 in Springfield, MO. Walter was born on July 3, 1940 to Walter K. and Velda L. (Richards) Kepner in Kankakee, IL. He graduated from Onarga Military School in Illinois and then achieved his BA Degree from Olivet Nazarene University. After graduating, he joined the Army. He proudly served our country in the United States Army from 1963 until 1966. He was stationed in Seoul, Korea and was a clinical psych specialist. Upon returning home, he began working with the State of Illinois at the Illinois Department of Unemployment Security and later with the Department of Rehab Services for a total of 33 years. He married Madalyn Hedden on December 28, 1963. Madalyn died on September 30, 1999. Walter was a lifetime member of the VFW, American Legion, NRA and North American Fishing Club. He was a former member of the Kankakee Elks. Our Dad was one of the most well-liked, good humored people that anyone could ever meet. He had a distinctive laugh and charismatic personality. He helped other people all the time and the favor was often returned. One could always expect a good story, likely indulged a bit, but never the less it was interesting. Dad lived a full life by traveling, fishing, hunting, camping and enjoying a good scotch on the rocks. He always maintained a positive attitude despite his medical issues which is to be admired by all. He endured a lot the past year but did it with dignity and grace. We will always remember his quirkiness, clumsiness and ability to pull through life taking the good with the bad with a few curse words thrown in. He loved his family and we all loved him very much. Heaven is lucky to have such a beautiful soul. We will meet you there Dad. Walter is survived by a son and daughter in law, Kirk (Kim) Kepner of Brookport, IL; one daughter and son in law, Malissa (Josh) Watters of Kankakee, IL, three grandchildren; Andrew, Lauren and Sofia Watters; dear friend, Shirley Mathews of Kankakee, and several close friends, neighbors and caregivers in Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Madalyn. Walter’s visitation will be held on Sunday, September 11, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Schreffler Funeral Home, Kankakee Chapel. Walter’s funeral service will be held on Monday, September 12, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at the Schreffler Funeral Home, Kankakee Chapel with Rev. Scott Henley officiating. Burial will follow at Mound Grove Gardens Cemetery in Kankakee, IL with military honors provided by the Momence Honor Guard. Memorials may be made to the wishes of the family. Please visit www.schrefflerfuneralhomes.com where you can sign Walter’s online guestbook.

Walter A. Kepner

July 3, 1940 - September 7, 2016

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Walter A. Kepner

July 3, 1940 - September 7, 2016

365 Days of Grief Support

What We Do

Sympathy Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

Contact Information