Kenneth William Repple Jr., Sheet Metal Worker and Family Man, Dies at 82

Kenneth William Repple Jr., a dedicated member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union for 65 years, passed away on March 19, 2026, at the age of 82, surrounded by his family. Born September 29, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work, family devotion, and community involvement.

Early Life and Career

Ken Repple was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. He dedicated his professional life to the Sheet Metal Workers Union, retiring in 1996 after 65 years of service. His commitment to his trade and his colleagues was a defining characteristic of his working life.

Family and Personal Life

In 1962, Ken married Elizabeth, and together they shared 64 years of marriage. They built a family, raising their four children – Cheryl, Christine (Marc), Elizabeth, and Kenneth William III (Sherry) – in River Grove, Illinois, where they resided for 30 years. He was a loving grandfather to Michelle (Brian), Janelle, Brian (Lauren), Philip (Britt), Kevin, Stephanie, and Kaitlyn, and a great-grandfather to Emily and Adam.

Later Years and Remembrance

Following his retirement in 1996, Ken and Liz moved to Naples, Florida in 2003. Despite their move, they frequently returned to Chicago to maintain close ties with family and friends. Ken took immense pride in his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation and Services

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026, from 3:00–9:00 p.m. At Friedrichs Funeral Home in Mount Prospect, Illinois. A second visitation will take place on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. At St. Raymond Church in Mount Prospect, followed by a Mass at 11:00 a.m.

Donations

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association or the Dementia Society of America.

For further information, please contact Friedrichs Funeral Home at 847-255-7800 or visit their website at www.friedrichsfh.com.