Robert J. "Rob" Hepler, Jr.

Robert J. Hepler, Jr., affectionately known as Rob to his family and friends, passed away peacefully at The Gatehouse of Divine Providence Hospital on Saturday, June 7, 2025, in his hometown of Williamsport, the same place where he first entered the world on January 6, 1966.

Rob was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Darlene Missigman, whom he would have observed 34 wonderful years of marriage with on July 27th, and a loving father to his children, Alex Hepler (Daniel Kaefer), Megan Aunkst (Zack), Rebekah Hepler, Catherine Stella (Angela), and Mollie Hepler (Courtland Baier). He was a proud grandfather, or “Happy”, to Meliodas Aunkst, who brought immense joy to his life. Rob was the cherished son of Robert J. Hepler, Sr. and Donna (Decker) Hepler, and he held a special place in the hearts of his brother, William "Bill" Hepler (Victoria), his sister, Rachel Hepler, and his father-in-law, Frank Missigman. He was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Marylou Missigman, maternal grandparents William and Mary Decker, and paternal grandparents, Robert and Marie Hepler. He leaves behind very special friends, Jason and Paula Young and their kids Logan and Abby, who called him “Pappy Rob”, Brandy and Kurt Savidge and their daughter Morgan, Lou and Jayne Miller, and Gene and Jane McGill, who were all like extended family to him.

A proud graduate of Williamsport Area High School in 1984 and Williamsport Area Community College in 1986, Rob went on to become a highly skilled electronic technician for Diebold. His intelligence and problem-solving abilities made him a respected figure in his field. However, it was his selfless dedication to his community that truly defined him. For 40 years, Rob served as a volunteer EMT and firefighter for the Old Lycoming Township Fire Company, where his bravery and commitment to helping others were unwavering.

Rob's adventurous spirit was evident in his love for NASCAR, with Dale Earnhardt being his all-time favorite driver. He was an avid hunter, finding peace and solace in the tranquility of nature. The Outer Banks beach was a cherished destination for him, a place where he could relax and reconnect with his loved ones. Camping trips were among his favorite ways to spend time with his family, as were the days spent cheering on his children in their various activities, from swimming to band performances. Known as MacGyver because of his interesting ways of fixing things, he enjoyed listening to House of Hair in his garage while tinkering with inventions, all while drinking a cold Twisted Tea.

Those who knew Rob will remember him as a man of great character—selfless in his actions, adventurous in his pursuits, and intelligent in his thoughts. He was the kind of person who made a lasting impression on everyone he met, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have been a part of his life.

A viewing will be held 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Thursday, June 12, 2025 at Knight-Confer Funeral Home, 1914 Memorial Ave., Williamsport.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making memorials in Rob’s name to: Susquehanna Health Foundation, c/o The Gatehouse or Home Care and Hospice, 1001 Grampian Blvd., Williamsport, PA 17701; Aortic Hope at aortichope.org or P.O. Box 17, Abingdon, MD 21009; and/or Old Lycoming Township Fire Company, 1600 Dewey Ave., Williamsport, PA 17701.

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