Kenny Epple

Kenneth Joseph "Kenny" Epple, age 63, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away peacefully Monday, February 2, 2026, at home surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

He was born on September 16, 1962, in Jefferson City, a son of the late Orval "Ep" and Elsie Epple. He was united in marriage to Darla Kay Gilmore on March 10, 1990, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Together, Kenny and Darla raised two sons and shared nearly 36 years of faithful commitment and endless love.

Kenny was a 1981 graduate of Helias High School, where he was extremely active in athletics and high school social life. He excelled in sports, particularly wrestling, in which he took 4th place overall in the state for his performance on the mat. He was also a talented football player and golfer and carried a passion for sports throughout his life.

While attending the University of Missouri-Columbia, he was a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity. In 1986, Kenny completed his Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education at Lincoln University. He went directly to work for the Division of Youth Services as an educator and mentor, helping troubled juveniles earn their GED and start a path to a new life. He dedicated 35 years to the division, taking an early retirement in 2021. His dedication to his career helped shape countless lives not only through education, but also through recreational activities such as fishing, archery, deer processing, and teaching practical life skills. He served as a positive and stable male figure for many of the young students, several who recognized and remembered him years later.

An outdoorsman to the core, Kenny had a deep passion for hunting, fishing, scouting, and nearly any activity of the likes. He preferred bow hunting and enjoyed the challenge that came with preparing for each open season. In the springtime, he was rarely found without a rod in hand or a plan to end up near the water. Many of his hunting and fishing outings were with his brother, Jim, by his side. The bond and connection the brothers made through nature was unbreakable and undeniable. His outdoor adventures took him to numerous places around the world to fish, including Canada, Mississippi, Florida, and South Dakota. He also traveled to Alaska with his lifelong friends, who had the group nickname "The Outlaws."

Kenny loved being able to share his passions with those he loved, including his sons and many friends. From taking his sons hunting to coaching them on the wrestling mat, he was a constant support for Cole and Jesse. He loved hosting fish fries and BBQs at his home for family and friends alike. The entire process filled him with excitement from making his shopping list to preparing the food. Coolers came full, lies were told, and memories were made at each gathering. Kenny was beyond generous with his time, talents, and knack for gift giving. He had a way of making the people in his life feel special, appreciated, and loved.

A man of steadfast and devoted faith, Kenny was a lifelong member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. He served as a hospitality minister and helped with the annual men's pancake breakfast, serving where and when he could. He was faithful in his morning routine of reading scripture, praying the rosary, watching EWTN (Global Catholic Television Network), and praying for lost souls. His unwavering commitment to his faith was an inspiration to many, especially through his health battles.

In retirement, Kenny found companionship in his beloved pup, Josey Wales. He took Josey on several walks throughout the day, which ended up with the two of them greeting the neighborhood dogs with treats. Eventually, the dogs would make their way to Kenny whether on his back porch, front stoop, or as he sat on the corner of the cul-de-sac. This earned Kenny the nickname "The Dog Whisperer." Josey truly was man's best friend and provided Kenny with immense joy.

Above all, Kenny undoubtedly and fiercely loved his family. You never had to wonder where you stood with Kenny or if he loved you; his love shined bright in all he did. When his illness kept him at home, his family was always there to support him and sometimes help him with various ornery ventures. His tenacious spirit paired with his unwavering love for the people and passions in his life have created a legacy that is one of a kind. Kenny will be immensely missed and forever cherished by all who were blessed to know and be loved by him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Darla; son, Jesse Epple (Corin) of St. Louis, Mo.; siblings, Jim Epple of Jefferson City, Mo.; and Lisa Tharp (Tim) of Jefferson City, Mo.; siblings-in-law, Kevin Gilmore (Jonna) of Jefferson City, Mo.; and Pam Bowman (Chuck) of Columbia, Mo.; nieces and nephews, George Tharp (Joe), Alex Tharp (Elena), Lily Tharp (Carson Mohr), Justin Gilmore (Haley), Paige Colbert (Danny), Kevin Cochran (Katia), and Eric Cochran (Kristina); Godparents Don and Renilda Mertens; several great-nieces; numerous members of his extended family and close friends; and his beloved pup and sidekick, Josey Wales.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ep and Elsie; son, Cole Joseph Epple; and parents-in-law, Karl and Betty Gilmore.

Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Friday, February 6, 2026, at the church with the Reverend Matthew J. Flatley officiating. Graveside services and entombment will be held at the Mausoleum at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens.

A Celebrate of Life for Kenny will continue from 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. at Capital Bluffs Event Center, 1616 Oilwell Rd Suite B, Jefferson City, MO 65101.

In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorial contributions to Immaculate Conception Catholic School, 1206 E McCarty St, Jefferson City, MO 65101 or the Jefferson City Animal Shelter, 2308 Hyde Park Rd, Jefferson City, MO 65109.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.