- Date Of Birth: January 31, 1951
- Date Of Death: September 28, 2016
- State: Illinois
Joseph “Joe” Ruepke, 65 of Centralia, passed away Wednesday, September 28, 2016 at his home. He was born January 31, 1951 in Chariton, Iowa, son of Harold Ruepke and Barb (Feehan) Ruepke. He married Hope Toland on January 31, 1976 and she survives in Centralia.
In addition to his wife of 40 years, he is also survived by a son, Jeremy Ruepke and Lori Logan of Centralia; a daughter, Alysha Ruepke and fiancé Bob Sharkey of Swansea; three grandchildren: Nick Ruepke and fiancé of Danielle Brown of Centralia, Tamiah Sharkey and Dorian Sharkey, Jr., both of Swansea; five great-grandchildren: Farryn, Jaxon, Piper, Evalyn, and Brooklyn; five brothers and two sisters: Steve Ruepke of Iowa, Jim Ruepke and Kim of Iowa, Larry Ruepke of Iowa, Linda Houseman of Arizona, Tony Ruepke of Iowa, Ron Ruepke and Dee of Iowa, Sandy Wetzel and Dave of Arizona; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Johnny Ruepke.Joe worked as heavy machine operator for BNSF Railroad for 42 years. He served in the U.S. Marines during Vietnam. He was a member of the Centralia V.F.W. Post 2055.
Joe enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, and the outdoors. He also enjoyed boating with his family and playing cards. His greatest enjoyment was spending time with his family and friends.
