John Francis ("Jack") Tepe, 81, of Maineville, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 17. Jack was the son of Maurice and Elva (nee Hope) Tepe.
He was preceded in death by his brother James (Peggy) and is survived by his brother Joseph (Connie) of Erie, PA.
Jack was a 1949 graduate of Clairton High School (Clairton, PA). After high school, he enlisted in the United State Marine Corps where he earned the rank of corporal. Jack was a staunch Republican and proud patriot of his country. In 1955, Jack married his high school sweetheart, Leonora ("Nornie") (nee Bradley). Together, they had six children. Nornie preceded him in death in 1998.In 2001, Jack married Patricia Rich (nee Evans) and together they traveled and enjoyed their life together in their cabin in Maineville. With their now expanded family, there was never a dull moment in the years that followed. Jack and Pat regularly engaged with their friends from church with regular meals and social events. The "Brunch Bunch" as they called themselves, would fellowship often and would meet after church for a meal and spend time at each other's home. Over the past several years, Jack was never seen without his "walking stick". This was no ordinary stick, but rather a large piece of wood that was hand carved. (Picture Gandolf in the Lord of the Rings trilogy) Jack was a lifelong member of the NRA and an ardent supporter of the Second Amendment. He was never at a loss to speak his mind when it came to his position on conservative social issues. (As anyone on his email distribution list can attest) His position on the sanctity of life was demonstrated by his unfailing support of Elizabeth's New Life Center. As a parishioner of St. Columban Catholic Church, Jack demonstrated his servant's heart through the generosity of his time, talents and resources. His faith in God was displayed in his actions on a daily basis. He spent time each day talking to "the Big Guy" seeking His guidance and support. In his younger years, he designed and built the baseball fields at Testerman Park in Hamilton Township and would use his time to regularly maintain the fields. He always took the time to help when someone came calling, regardless whether he actually had the time or not. Jack never turned down anyone in need. Jack never sought or expected the spotlight or the accolades for anything he did. His ability to laugh at himself endeared him to all who met him, demonstrating his humble nature.
Jack also was there at every turn for each of his 6 children teaching them the important lessons of life such as faith in God and devotion to family. Jack is survived by his wife, Pat, his children; Melinda Clark (Greg), John (Jay) Tepe (Shelli), Timothy Tepe (Renae), Eric Tepe (Lisa), Kirk Tepe (Jenn) and Amy Luck (Jack), and step children; Mark Rich (Darja), David Rich (Roseanne), Dan Rich (Laura), and Matt Rich (Amy).
He is also survived by his grandchildren; Steve Siciliano (Tonya), Bradley Hayner (Elizabeth), Abby Clark, Hanna Clark, Connor Tepe, Taylor Tepe, Zachary Tepe, Rachel Tepe, Jessica Frankenburg (Ryan), Jonathan Grubb (Brittany), Ryan Tepe, Tyler Tepe, Kelsey Tepe, Sydney Tepe, Joshua Tepe, Meredith Tepe, Jackson Luck, Catie Luck, Bethany Luck, Teresa Luck, Marlee Luck, Jennifer Dodson (Justin), Mary Rich, Ashley Rich, Kate Rich, Aidan Rich, Alex Rich, Micah Rich, and Elijah Rich, as well as his great grandchildren; Trey Siciliano, Ashley Siciliano, Isabella Siciliano, Kaleb Frankenburg, Noah Frankenburg, Gabriella Frankenburg, Gianna Grubb, Reagan Grubb and Gabriella Dodson.
Jack also leaves behind countless friends and acquaintances that he touched in his life. He took the road less traveled and has now received the Crown of Glory that was promised. His Lord has spoken to him those words he longed to hear: "Well done thou good and faithful servant"
Online memorial contributions can be directed to Donate to Elizabeth's New Life Center
Funeral Home:
Tufts Schildmeyer Family Funeral Home & Cremation Center - Loveland
129 Riverside Drive
Loveland, OH
US 45140