Neil Edward Epkey

     Neil Edward Epkey, age 81 of Fowler, MI, passed away Sunday, November 6, 2022, at his home surrounded by his family.

     Funeral Services will be held at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Fowler, MI, at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, November 11, 2022, with Pastor Paul Clark and Pastor Lance Klamer officiating.  Burial will take place at Most Holy Trinity Cemetery, Fowler, MI.  Visitation will be held at Smith Family Funeral Homes – Goerge Chapel, Fowler, MI, on Thursday, November 10, 2022 from 2-8 P.M. with the family present from 2-4 & 6-8 P.M. Visitation will also be held on Friday from 10-11 A.M. prior to the service at the church.

     Neil was born in St. Johns, Michigan on June 2, 1941, the son of Frederick and Mary (Light) Epkey.  He was a Fowler High School graduate.  On October 1, 1966 Neil married Joyce Wirth at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Fowler, MI, and she survives him.

     Neil was a lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Fowler, MI and his faith and family were the guiding force in his life.  He immensely enjoyed his Wednesday night Bible Study.  Neil was a farmer his entire life, and was an avid hunter, loved sports, and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.  They were the joy of his life. 

     He is survived by his wife Joyce Epkey of Fowler, MI; son Dale and Karianne Epkey of Kalamazoo, MI; three daughters: Kimberly and Joseph Simon of Fowler, MI; Kerry and Ryan Irrer of Fowler, MI; Karmen and Greg Hungerford of DeWitt, MI.  He is also survived by sixteen grandchildren: Ian (fiancée Anna), Quinn (Kyle), Shelby (fiancé' Adam), Clayton, Owen, Aaron, Josie, Jacob, Hannah, Maria, Andrew, John, Isaac, Landon, Grace, and Hope; several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and his siblings: Dorothy, Helen, Gladys, Louis and Eunice.

     Memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church or Sparrow Hospice in Neil’s honor. Online condolences can be sent to www.smithfamilyfuneralhomes.com. The family is being served by Smith Family Funeral Homes - Goerge Chapel, Fowler, Michigan.