Robert Lepel

Robert (Bob) Lepel RPh, 77, passed away Thursday, April 27, 2017 at Wellbrooke of South Bend Rehabilitation Center after an extended illness. He was a lifelong resident of Niles, Michigan and graduated from Niles High School in the “Class of ‘57”. He earned his bachelor of science degree in pharmacy at Ferris State College, Big Rapids, Michigan in 1962.

He was the owner of Krajci Drugs in Niles and Dowagiac Drugs in Dowagiac, Michigan. He sold both stores and then was employed by Martin’s Supermarket Pharmacy, retiring in 2007. Bob was a life member of BPOE #1322 in Niles and was secretary of the Elks Lodge bowling league for several years. He was also an avid golfer in the Elks league and also enjoyed his weekly card group at the club. He loved working with wood, creating miniatures, fishing and most of all, spending time with family. He enjoyed traveling, getting “On the Road Again” and onto the next adventure. Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula were favorite destinations in the motor home. He was happy to have explored 49 of the continental United States and most of the provinces in Canada.

Bob is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Betsy) Lepel, his son, Mike (Sue) Lepel of Niles Michigan, daughter, Robin (Tim) Szweda of Jenison Michigan, stepsons, Scott (Dawn) McCready of Grafton Ohio and Kevin McCready of Chicago Illinois, seven grandchildren, six great grandchildren and two sisters, Elaine (Larry) Lee and Nancy Acosta. He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Winifred (Barnes) Lepel.

Memorial contributions may be made to Niles Elks BPOE #1322 or Christian Service Center Food Pantry, 322 Clay St. Niles, Michigan. Those wishing to sign Bob’s memory book online may do so at www.halbritterfunerals.com. An Elks memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, May 6th at the Niles Elks Lodge, 1322 Canal Street.