James Timothy "Tim" Hepler's Obituary
HEPLER, James Timothy “Tim”, age 78, of Dayton and formerly of Kettering, passed away on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Hospice of Dayton.
Tim was born on February 14, 1947, in Long Beach, California. His father, Lt. Col. James Hepler, was a pilot in the military, which allowed his family to travel extensively; some of the more notable deployments were to Germany, Japan, Alaska, and Alabama. Lt. Col. James Hepler was also well known for his fly-bys at their house in Montgomery, Alabama. He graduated from the Kentucky Military Institute, class of ’65. Following high school, he attended Eastern Kentucky University. He was very proud of his 50-year career at Western & Southern Life Insurance Company, where he retired in 2012 as a special agent and sales manager.
While in high school, he was passionate about playing sports and excelled at them as well. He played on the football, basketball, and baseball teams. He was awarded “Lineman of the Year” in 1964 – 1965 and “Athlete of the Year” in 1964 from the Kentucky Military Institute. During that same time, he was taught the technique of “tuck ‘n roll” to avoid injury on the football field. That life lesson stuck with him for the remainder of his life, and when his balance became unsteady later in life, it helped him avoid serious injuries. He was an avid fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide football. Roll Tide, forever. He also enjoyed watching and cheering on The Ohio State University Buckeyes, Pittsburgh Steelers, Cincinnati Bengals, and the UD Flyers basketball team. Shopping on QVC was one of his favorite hobbies. Tim loved to do yard work and was so dedicated and meticulous to his yard that he won several beautification awards. He supported many charities, but SICSA was always dear to his heart. He was an avid pet lover and was a fantastic pet parent to his dogs, Megan, Lovee, Sunny Boy, Patches, and Shadow.
Tim loved music, especially oldies from the ‘60s through the ‘80s. The Beach Boys, Four Tops, and Luther Vandross are some of his favorite artists. Over the years, he had accumulated a collection of records, but loved the vinyl 45 records. Dancing was also a significant part of his life, and it was through dancing that he met his wife, Kathleen. In addition, he also relished visiting the Mike Fink floating riverboat restaurant in Cincinnati and riding roller coasters at Kings Island. Even though he was a little rough around the edges, he was known for being a big teddy bear at heart with a great sense of humor. When asked how he was doing, he would reply, “peachy.” Tim looked forward to the Christmas season, when the family would all get together and attend a midnight service at Westminster Presbyterian Church in downtown Dayton.
Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Lt. Col. James and Marian Hepler. He is survived by his devoted ex-wife, Kathleen (Steve) Colclasure; loving step-daughter, Michele Lange; step-son, Brad (Kris) Lange; three grandchildren, Carter Stanton (Catelynn), Allyson Lange, and Tyler Lange; one great-granddaughter; his sister, Amy Denney; niece, Lauren Jeffries; nephew, Kohl Denney; special and devoted Western Southern retiree friends, Rob, Mike, and Steve; and special friend and personal care attendant, Lishawannia Crum.
The family wishes to express a special thanks to the Ohio’s Hospice of Dayton staff and caregivers at the Hospice House: RNs, Tess and Monika; PCA, Kina; and Chaplain, Tom.
Kathleen is especially grateful for the love and support of her dear husband, Steve, over the last two years. His support of the entire family during this difficult time will never be forgotten.
Tim strongly believed that God had something better planned for him, and he is now resting in peace.
Private services at the convenience of the family. Conner & Koch Funeral Home in Bellbrook is serving the family. If desired, contributions may be made to SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellness Center. Condolences may be shared with the family at https://www.connerandkoch.com.
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