Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Joshua Epple Obituary
Joshua Nathan Epple was taken from us suddenly on February 15, 2014.
Josh was born in 1972. He began working at Drewes Meats in Noe Valley at 15 and eventually assumed ownership in 2000.
Josh was a loving and proud father to his 6 year old son Justice. He could often be seen walking his loyal canine companions Mazey, Bebe, and Doop from his butcher shop to the Day Street dog park.
Josh was a die-hard fan of San Francisco's Niners and Giants. As well as an avid basketball player, he also enjoyed a wide variety of sports including softball, biking, hacky sack, and motorcycling, with snowboarding being his favorite. Music, especially Megadeth and NIN, was an important part of his life and he loved seeing bands at various San Francisco venues. Entertaining and food were also key interests; barbecuing, cooking, and hosting friends and family as well as frequenting local establishments.
Josh is survived by his son Justice, mother Anna, Karl, brother Isaac, sister Lilah and a large group of people he called his extended family.
A memorial will be held at St. Paul's at 29th and Church, Friday February 21, 2014 at 1:30 p.m.
If you would like to make a contribution for Justice Epple it can be made at justiceepple.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joshua Epple
Vanessa King
November 15, 2018
I was just thinking of Josh,so i looked up his name,was trying to find him on social media- only to find out about this tragedy in 2014.I attented Ulloa elementary with Josh ,and had a huge crush on him.I have not seen Josh since elementary school.To this day ,I think of him . I am deeply saddened to learn of this tragedy.
Patrice Catanio
March 1, 2014
This has been very hard for me to write. It's as if doing so makes it true that my sweet Josh is gone....which is an intolerable thought. I've known Josh since he was a teenager. I was immediately struck by his intelligence, honesty, sense of humor and capacity to be very present. I thought of him as the Brother I always wanted or the Son I'd be so proud to have. In reading other comments and going to the service it is abundantly clear that I am not alone in my grief and clarity about this remarkable man. Truly one of a kind. Josh's heart was a big tent that anyone who showed some character was welcome and cared for. Thank you Josh for all the love, laughs, great conversation, running a stellar business that felt like a home away from home for me and so many. Thank you for always being true to yourself.
Broken hearts will not diminish the impact you've had on so, so many. I love you forever and will carry you with me. And, I promise I will be there for Justice however he needs me.
Watch over us. We need you.
Gabrielle Galarza (Quinn)
February 27, 2014
So sad to hear this. To his family i send my deepest condolences. To my childhood friend Lilah I want you to know how sorry i am for the loss of your brother.
Carrie Altuvilla Gilmore
February 24, 2014
Valerie, Isaac and Lilah,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Its been a long time, but an old friend from SF sent me a message to give me the news about Josh. I was shocked and saddened to learn of this tragedy. Thoughts and prayers are with all of you always.
Sincerest Condolences,
Shawna
February 21, 2014
Josh you are truly one of a kind. You will be missed!
Janis
February 21, 2014
My condolences to Josh's family and friends. The neighborhood is a little less bright these days. I will miss discussing the ins and outs of the Giants with you, Josh!
Anonymous Anonymous
February 21, 2014
Gone too soon....
Arnold
February 20, 2014
Josh was a neighbor of ours when we used to live on Pope Street. I remember him walking his dogs. I have heard of the motorcycle accident and only through a friend post on Facebook did I learn it was someone I knew. Always found time to stop and chat about sports. He always had a 9er flag outside his house during the season. Thanks for the friendship, Josh. Too bad we lost in toch after I moved out with my family. You've touched many lives. Rest in peace. Prayers for you, family and friends.
Arleen Connolly
February 20, 2014
I am so so sorry for your loss I have known Josh since he was 15 A Fine young man.I have a Heavy heart since I heard the news God Bless Family,His Drews Bros Family,God Speed Josh
Jason Brown
February 20, 2014
You will be missed. With a heavy heart and mad love.
J Brown
Paula Fraser
February 20, 2014
JOSH RIP...Who will banter with me on Church Street with Josh gone too soon? Living across the street from Drewes he'd ask me if I wanted my order delivered. He knew all our names, as everyone knew his name. So many grown men crying is a tribute to his close connections to friends, neighbors,and friends. From my window I see buckets and buckets of flowers around the entrance to Drewes on Church Street. Can you see the love Josh?
Effie & Stephen
February 20, 2014
My heart goes out to the Epple family, Justice, Anna, Karl, brother Isaac, sister Lilah and all family members. I know how hard this must be for all of you as I just lost my beloved brother Ares "Harry" Pappas in a motorcycle accident on January 17, 2014 in SF. Your loss is great and only time will heal how you are feeling now. My husband and I met Josh once at a company function many years ago. God bless you all and our sincere condolences to the family.
Alexander Mitchell
February 20, 2014
Very surprised to hear of Mr. Epple's passing. My sincere thoughts and prayers to his Family.
terri pate
February 20, 2014
RIP
Terri Pate
February 20, 2014
RIP Josh. You were a great guy and boss (for a very short time) and was always willing to help my brother out.
Patsy Hatt
February 20, 2014
Such a loss to all that loved him. He was a fixture in the neighborhood; helpful and friendly. No matter how busy he was, he always had time to talk to me about recipes, cuts of meat, and the Giants. He and his brother Isaac's shop was one of my favorite places to go. A real loss to the community and the culture of SF. RIP brother you will truly be missed.
Michele Bulen
February 20, 2014
Our condolences to the family and to the Drewes family. The St. Paul's community has lost a generous friend. Our thoughts are with you.
February 19, 2014
RIP Josh! The TIME you touched our hearts, we will hold in our hearts forever! Love, Dennis & Patty
February 19, 2014
Josh was a good man and friend. I enjoyed our basketball at St. Paul's School during my time as principal. He had terrific outlet passes and commanded the boards. Josh was full of life and had a great sense of humor. He spoke his mind directly and clearly. I would always stop in the Shop to say hello. May he rest in peace and may the many good memories we have of Josh sustain us during this time of loss. Being in Puerto Rico, I will not be able to join the community at his services on Friday at St. Paul's Church. He will be in my prayers.
Bruce Colville
Rudy & Heather Villasenor
February 19, 2014
Such a tragic loss of a wonderful man. The world will not be the same without you Josh!! We love, and will miss you, for eternity! Until we meet again dear friend. RIP
The Owens family
February 19, 2014
So very sad...God bless you! Rest peacefully and shine bright on your friends and family especially Justice! You were a great dad!
Showing 1 - 22 of 22 results
Make a Donation
in Joshua Epple's name
Memorial Events
for Joshua Epple
How to support Joshua's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Joshua Epple's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
