Edward J. Kepler, 78, Syracuse, died Saturday, Feb. 6, 2010, at Johnson County Hospital, Tecumseh. He was born Aug. 13, 1931, at Avoca, son of William F. Kepler and Sophie Buchholz. He married Helen Harms June 28, 1951, at First Lutheran Church, North Branch, near Avoca. She died Oct. 14, 1976.
    A farmer, Kepler had lived on a farm south of Syracuse since 1960. He was a member of the Nebraska City Eagles Club No. 908. Kepler enjoyed farming, enjoyed being around his animals and especially enjoyed dancing!
    Surviving are sons, Boyd and wife Wendy, Cook, and Gary and wife Marsha, Avoca; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; special friend, Marion Diers, Syracuse; brother, Elmer and wife Doris, Avoca; sister, Edna Compton, Lee’s Summit, Mo; sister-in-law, Dawnie, Safety Harbor, Fla.;  many other relatives and many friends.
    Besides his wife, Kepler was preceded by a son, Bruce, June 23, 1986; brothers, Harry, Henry, John and Willie; and sisters, Nelli, Minnie and Adela.
    The service was Wednesday, Feb. 10, at Christ Lutheran Church, Delaware, southeast of Syracuse. Pastor Glatha Rathjen officiated. Interment was at the church cemetery.
    Pallbearers were Matthew Mattheis, Donald Harms, Ron Ehman, Clarence Whitehead, Craig Kreifels and Dalyce Sudman.
    Marita Kuhlenengel was organist. There was congregational singing.
    Memorials are suggested to the Avoca Town Hall.
    Condolences may be sent to: www.fusselmanwymore.com.
    Fusselman-Wymore Funeral Home, Syracuse, was in charge of arrangements.