Joseph J. Rzepka, beloved husband,
father, and grandfather, went home to the Lord on Wednesday, September
29, 2010 at the age of 88.
Joseph’s allegiances were to God, family, and country, and he lived his life in devoted service to these convictions.
His passions led him to a career in the educational field, which
included positions as physical education teacher, principal, and
ultimately Superintendent of South Redford Schools.
Joe was most proud of his service in the Army Air Force during World
War II in the European Theatre of Operations. Joe completed 65 missions
as a gunner in an A-20 Havoc, participated in D-Day operations, and
received a Purple Heart. After the war he attended Wayne State
University, where he was a varsity athlete and a member of the
mischievous Gashouse Gang. There he met Patricia working as a secretary
on campus.
Joe and Pat were married in 1950, and raised their eight children in
South Redford, MI. In 1969 they purchased the A&W restaurant in
Lexington and moved to the village that became their home. Joe became
involved in local politics, joining numerous committees and service
organizations, and served as Lexington’s Village President for seven
years. He greatly enjoyed the people that he met and worked with in
Lexington.
Joseph is survived by his wife of 60 years, Patricia, and eight
children; Janet, John, Joe (Catherine), Kathleen, Peggy (Steven)
Stencel, Judy Gaw, Sue (Stephen) Bombard, and Patti (Cam) Comire; his
nineteen grandchildren were the light of his life. He is survived also
by his loving sister Bernice Zygiel of Lexington and one brother Louis
(Jeanne) of Cortland, NY. Joe will be greatly missed by all who loved
him.
A funeral service was held at the St. Denis Church in Lexington.
Interment was at the St. Denis Cemetery.
Sanilac County News (
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