Denny Keplinger passed away peacefully on November 6, 2021. He graduated from Oberlin High School in 1968 and enlisted in the United States Navy. Denny proudly and honorably served his country in Viet Nam, Desert Storm and the evacuation of Beirut. He served 27 years obtaining the rank of Chief Petty Officer.
Denny started each day with a smile and expressed his love for life, family, friends and his country. He enjoyed working on vintage VW Beetles, volunteering with various organizations, and was a Freemason and a member of Eastern Stars.
Denny was preceded in death by his parents Fern and Denver Keplinger.
Left to cherish his memory are wife Barbara (Smith Marshall) Keplinger; daughter Jana Keplinger (Troy) Smith; son Jay (Sheree) Keplinger; grandchildren Natalie Keplinger and Trevor Smith; and brother Perry (Brenda) Keplinger. Denny’s blended family also included daughter Kendra Marshall; son K. Ryan Marshall; granddaughters Kaysyn Marshall and Kaylesia Marshall; grandson Kenneth Marshall; three great grandchildren; and fellow Mason and best friend, Laurence Garcher.
Public visitation for family and friends will be held on Thursday, November 11, 2021 from 5:00 p.m. until the time of the Masonic Services at 8:00 p.m. at Hempel Funeral Home, 373 Cleveland Ave., Amherst. Funeral services will be held Friday at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Military Honors will be provided by the Amherst Veterans Military Honor Guard.
In lieu of flowers Denny’s family suggests memorial donations to Stonington Lodge #503, Amherst, OH; Boys and Girls Club of Oberlin Masonic Temple #380 or a children’s charity of your choice.
Please visit the funeral home's website to share a memory and sign the guest register, www.hempelfuneralhome.com.
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