Final Salute

1926 – 2016 WORTHINGTON- CDR Robert M. Epperly (Ret), died on September 10, 2016, at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton following a long illness. Bob and his wife, Sandra, celebrated their 40th anniversary on September 3rd, and Bob enjoyed a 90th birthday celebration in June which was happily attendedby his numerous friends, colleagues and members of his family. Bob was predeceased by his son, Robert. He is survived by his wife, his childrenAnnette Weiland (husband George), Mary Ellen Feinberg, 4 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and siblings Virginia, Guy, Loyd and Ed. Born in Webb, OK, on June 6, 1926, Bob enlisted in the Navy, just three days after his 17th birthday and served with distinction. He was a Naval Aviator in WWII the Korean War, and during Operation Deepfreeze III and IV. As a result of flights into unexplored areas, Epperly Mountain now appears on geographical maps in Antarctica. He was the recipient of several medals, commendations and citations during his naval career. After retirement from the Navy, Bob continued to pursue his passion for aviation and received jet certification. He flew jets for corporate clients until he was age 70, and for the next five yearsflew private charters. He was an inspired mentor and teacher. Asone of his young mentees recounted: “He trusted me, but gave me room to make my own mistakes”. After moving to Worthington in 1976, Bob actively participated in the life of the town. He served on numerous town boards including the Finance Committee and the Zoning Board of Appeals. He was a Constable and a member of the Select Board. He also was one of the initiators of the Worthington Flag Fund and could be seen several times a year riding around town helping install flags for each Patriotic observation. He was a member of the First Congregational Church of Worthington, UCC serving as Financial Secretary, on the investment committee and treasurer of the CWS Crop Walk; Bobwas active in the Worthington Historical Society serving for many years as its President as well as on its board of directors and serving on committees. He was a member and supporter of many organizations. Bob was a thoughtful, honest, gentlemanly man with a wonderful smile and sense of humor. He was always available to volunteer for a worthy cause. FUNERAL NOTICE: Friends and family are invited to share in a celebration of life for Bob on Saturday, October 1 at 1:00 at the First Congregational Church of Worthington UCC, Huntington Rd., followed by internment at North Cemetery and a gathering at the Worthington Historical Society. Fragrance Free, please. Memorial contributions to the Naval Aviation Foundation Museum, 1750 Radford Blvd., Suite B, Pensacola FL 32508 or www.navalaviationfoundation.org The Ahearn Funeral Home of Northampton is assisting the Epperly family with Bob’s Funeral arrangements.

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Published in The Berkshire Eagle on Sep. 27, 2016.