Richard Mark 'Rich' Erpelding

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Erpelding, Richard Mark "Rich" better known as Papa by his daughter's family, passed away at Emerald Crest Memory Care in Victoria Friday night, Feb. 17, 2017 at the age of 66. His daughter Jesse was with him. Rich was born Oct. 22, 1950 in St. Cloud, Minnesota, to George and Clara (Schneider) Erpelding. He grew up on the family farm in Eden Valley. After attending St. Cloud State College he served in the Army in Thailand during the Vietnam War. Upon his return he married Mary White and they moved to Maryland, where he worked for the National Security Agency. Rich and Mary eventually settled in Richmond, Minnesota and Jesse was born in 1976. Rich operated a gunsmith business and his ability to repair almost anything led to a maintenance position at St. John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota. Rich became afflicted with Alzheimer's disease at the age of 52. He had to retire and Jesse and her husband David opened their home to him where he lived for almost ten years. Papa was a great addition to their family. His four grandchildren always knew his lap was available and he helped with chores around the house. Rich is survived by his daughter Jesse (David) Neve; grandchildren Sarah, Jonathan, Daniel, and Benjamin; sisters Rose Fink and Janet Brown and brother Gerald. He is survived by five nieces, including Karen Rodgers who was like a daughter to him, two nephews, and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Daniel. Rich's family wishes to thank all of the caregivers at Emerald Crest, Dr. Sheldon Burns, Grace Hospice, and the many personal caregivers who helped Richard. Visitation Tuesday 7-9pm at Our Lady of the Lake Church. Mass of Christian Burial officiated by Father Tony O'Neill at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 2385 Commerce Blvd., Mound, MN at 11:00 Wednesday Feb. 22. Visitation at 10:00 before service. Interment to follow at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Cemetery. Funeral arrangements by Huber Funeral Home. Huber Funeral & Cremation Services Mound Chapel 952-472-1716 huberfunerals.com

Published on February 20, 2017