Gary Robert Epling

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary Robert Epling, 73, of Newark, OH. Gary left us peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday evening, October 13, 2025, after a brief, but hard-fought battle with cancer.

His remarkable, unwavering strength and courage carried him through all the days of his life. Gary was never afraid of battle; he was a fierce protector, a soldier for his country, a defender of all that he loved- the bravest man we've ever known. He served his country in Vietnam and protected his family with every breath. His unfailing bravery was always guided by love. Gary had a joke and a smile for every person he met, and an infectious laugh that would fill the room. He loved spending time with his kids, playing with his grandchildren and great grandchildren, being outdoors (especially on his Harley), telling jokes and watching old movies. He loved animals - especially his dogs - and sought adventures with genuine passion. But none did he love or cherish more than his wife, Kathryn, who he was devoted to for 51 years of marriage. His unfailing love and protection for "Kathy" was evident every single day and was truly a gift to witness. Gary fought his last battle and, by no coincidence, endured long enough to see his 51st anniversary to the love of his life. He left us the following day.

He is survived by his wife, Kathryn Epling; children, Gary Joseph Epling, Joshua Robert (Jennifer) Epling, Angelica Rose (Jeremiah) Johnson, and Nycole Louise Epling; grandchildren, Brittany, Johnathon, Gary, Abby, Kaleb, Makayla, Zekinthia, Colin, Ali, Madelyn, Owen and Quin; great-grandchildren, Addilynne, Graham, Landon, Asher, Tinlee, Grayson and Shaylinn; and siblings, Steve Epling, Vickie (Kopp), Mary (Harper) and Freda (Burns).

He was preceded in death by his mother Evelyn Louise, whom he loved dearly, and siblings, Kathy (Bowles) and Debbie (Burns).

Gary will be deeply missed by all who knew him. We will always remember him as a devoted husband, a wonderful father and grandfather (Poppy, Papa) who always had a smile and a joke to share, an adventurer who appreciated the fun and beauty in life, and a leader who encouraged us to appreciate what matters most. Gary taught us to never be confused about what we love most, and he loved his family more than anything in the world.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 11 A.M., Saturday, October 18, 2025, with Fr. Tom Gardner as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Newark, with military honors provided by the Licking County Veterans Alliance.