Robert R. Hepker

September 21, 1920 - June 12, 2010

Robert R. Hepker Obituary (Age 89) Passed away on June 12, 2010 in Spokane, WA. He was born on September 21, 1920 in Cleveland, OK. An "Okie" by birth; an "Arkie" by force; and a "Spokanite" by choice, Col. Robert R. Hepker came to Spokane in 1940 with the Regular Army at Fort George Wright, Geiger Field, Ephrata and Moses Lake Air Force Bases. At the age of 22 in 1942 he attained the grade of Master Sergeant. He served in Australia, New Guinea, and the Philippine Islands during World War II. After being discharged from the Regular Army in 1945, he returned to the states, and attended Kinman Business University. Upon completion of his schooling at the university, he enlisted in the Washington Air National Guard in 1948 and was employed as a full time Air Technician. Col. Hepker was ordered to active military service as a Warrant Officer during the Korean Conflict for two years. He returned to the Air National Guard on release from active duty and then continued onto full time duty with the Air National Guard. In 1957 he received direct commission in grade of Captain. Robert was Administrative Personnel Officer for the 142nd Air Defense Wing at Geiger. In February 1968 he became Lt. Colonel then in October 1974 he became Colonel retiring June 29, 1976. In his civic activities he was a member of Spokane Elks #228 as well as serving on the Board of Trustees and being Chairman. He also was a member of Spokane Rotary Club and a member of the Spokane Lilac Festival Committee. Bob leaves behind his loving wife Carol of 64 years; niece Arleigh Simonson; nephews Lynn Hurd and Dennis Hurd; sister-in-law Leila and her husband George Beiber; close friends Dale Wainwright, Richard Kupka and Ilene Weyen. The family wishes to extend thanks to Indian Trail Yokes Employees and Weekly Shopper Colleen, Hospice of Spokane and Havenwood Caregivers with special thanks to Tammy, Yolonda, Casey and Amanda. A funeral service will be held on Friday, June 18, 2010 at 10 a.m. at Sunset Chapel located on Fairmount Memorial Park, Spokane, WA. Memorial contributions may be made to Paralyzed Veterans of America, 7 Mill Brook Road, Wilton, NH 03086-9524.