Harley Pepmeier, 91, passed away peacefully on October 2, 2024 with his family by his side.
Harley was born on October 11, 1932 in Freelandville, Indiana, to Arnold and Dorothy (Dyer) Pepmeier. He grew up in Bicknell, Indiana, with his parents and siblings: brothers Robert, Vernon, Edwin, and Donnie, and sister Carolyn. Harley graduated from Bicknell High School in 1950 and married his true love, Marolyn Julian, on March 26, 1955 at First Methodist Church in Bicknell.
For 37 years, Harley was an electrical salesman for Valley Electric Supply in Vincennes, calling on customers all over western and southwestern Indiana. Prior to that, he served his country in the United States Air Force.
Harley was also a gifted woodworker, building beautiful pieces in his basement woodshop for family and friends. From birdhouses to side tables to jelly cupboards, he made it all. He also took great pride in his home, keeping his lawn and flowers impeccable and providing a welcoming setting for all kinds of birds.
Most of all, Harley loved his family. He and Marolyn have been fortunate to take annual beach vacations with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren for many of the past 25 years. No matter where they gathered, though, Harley loved nothing more than sitting back, taking in the chaos, and seeing everyone enjoy themselves (and, of course, capping it all off with a cold Hamm’s beer and a nap in the chair).
Harley is survived by his wife, Marolyn, and children Beth O’Brien, Tami Kight (Rob), John Pepmeier (Sara), and Jeff Pepmeier (Lori). He was known as Papa to his grandchildren Laura O’Brien, Jonathan O’Brien (Stacia), Chloe Kight, Jared Pepmeier (Tracy), Samantha Brinkley (Andrew), Kortney Coppens (Isaac), Brandi Oliver, and Kaitlin Stephens (James), along with his 11 great-grandchildren (and one on the way). Harley also is survived by sister-in-law Jan Horrom and brothers-in-law Dave Horrom, David Julian, and Calvin Horn, as well as dozens of nieces and nephews.
Harley was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, many sisters-in law and brothers-in-law, and several nieces and nephews.
A graveside visitation and service will take place on Monday, October 7 at Memorial Park Cemetery in Vincennes, with visitation from 12:00–1:00 p.m. and the service from 1:00–2:00 p.m.
