Richard J. Sepanski (1942-2020)

Richard J. Sepanski, age 77, of Winthrop Harbor (IL), formerly of Kenosha, WI passed away on February 8, 2020 peacefully at Hospice Alliance Hospice House (Kenosha). Richard was born on November 21, 1942 in Kenosha to Constantine “Gus” and Hattie (Pawlowski) Sepanski.

He was educated at St. Mary and Saint Joseph, both in Kenosha, WI. He graduated with his Degree in Mathematics and History from Dominican College in Racine. Richard taught at McKinley Junior High School for over 25 years (KUSD) until his retirement in 1992. As well, he served two terms as an alderman for the City of Kenosha. Richard also volunteered as a member of the Board of St. George’s Parish (Kenosha) and a commissioner of the local Boy Scout Troop.

Richard enjoyed travel, crossword puzzles, attending Broadway shows and concerts. He was an avid fan of the Wisconsin Badgers, Green Bay Packers and Chicago Cubs.

In 1966, Richard married Judith Lindemann (Kenosha) and they remained married for 24 years. In 2000, he married Nancy Veith (Kenosha) and they remained married until her death in 2005. He is presently survived by his Spouse, Claudia Hillyer (Winthrop Harbor).

He was preceded in death by his parents Constantine “Gus” and Hattie Sepanski. Also preceding him were his sisters Rosemary (Les Herrman) and Patricia (Jerry Bain), a brother Alan (Barbara), and wife Nancy (Veith).

Richard is survived by a large family. Claudia (Hillyer), his current Spouse and her three sons. As well he has three surviving Sons Matthew (Janetta) (Mt. Pleasant, WI), Corey (Anne) (Kenosha, WI) and Aaron (Julie) (Des Moines, IA) from his first marriage. Richard has ten grandchildren: Annalee, Ashlyn, Aiden (Matthew); Matt, Austin, Alex, Tate, Carter (Aaron); Mason and Quinn (Corey). Richard is also survived by his brother Robert (Linda) of Muenster, TX and three sisters, Marilyn (Walter) Skipper (Kenosha), Phyllis (Dan) Martino (Paddock Lake), and Joyce Rizk (Phoenix, AZ). Richard also has dozens of nieces, nephews and friends.

A visitation with the family will be held at the church on Thursday from 9:00 A.M followed immediately by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 A.M. on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church (4816 – 7^th Avenue). The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorials to either Hospice Alliance (Kenosha) or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital would be greatly appreciated.

Thoughts for Richard J. Sepanski (1942-2020);

Mary & Terry Tower says:

February 11, 2020 at 8:23 pm

Our condolences to the Sepanski families!Love and continued prayers for all.

Reply
Donna Marini Koch says:

February 12, 2020 at 7:38 pm

I am so very sorry for the loss of Mr. Sepanski. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Reply
Dave Sturino says:

February 13, 2020 at 7:07 am

I was a student of Mr. Sepanski at McKinley during the mid 70’s. His encouragement and belief in me got a punk kid through a very difficult time. Sad that I never got to tell him during this life. Thank you Mr. Sepanski for you were one of the few teachers that made a difference! RIP ?

Reply
- Jeffrey Stevens says:
  
  February 13, 2020 at 8:42 pm
  
  Same story here Dave.. RIP Mr. Sepanski
  
  Reply
THERESA M HASSELBACK-TONG says:

February 13, 2020 at 1:45 pm

I too, was a 9th grade math student of Mr. Sepanski’s, in the late 70’s, and have some great memories, and lessons I wouldn’t have had, if not for Him… RIP Sir ???

Reply
Magan Torres says:

October 23, 2020 at 2:20 pm

I am very sad to read this, but it does help me in my research as he is a relative of mine. He seemed like an amazing person and I am sad to missed the opportunity to know him.

Reply
James Szantor says:

November 6, 2020 at 12:45 am

I met Rich in 1963 while we were both working for the City of Kenosha Parks Dept. during the summer. Rich was basically in charge of concession stands under Parks Director Joe Babich, and when he needed a partner, he chose me, and we worked long hours together over several summers and into the fall (part time) for high school football games. I guess you can say we became close because he asked me to be best man at his wedding. I was in the military at the time (AF Band), and since there was no guarantee I could get free from our touring for his wedding date, I had to turn him down. But I have fond memories of shooting pool in his basement and playing Wiffle ball with him and his kids. Rich was an exuberant, fun-loving guy and a loyal friend. I’m sorry I didn’t keep in contact with him as the years stretched on, but he was definitely one of the best guys I ever knew. I’m not surprised to see the tributes from former students, and I’m sure his aldermanic constituents treasured him as well.

Reply