Neil R. Kepner

Neil R. Kepner, 80, lifelong resident of Berwick, passed away at his home Sunday, October 12, 2014. Born February 19, 1934, he was the son of the late George and Helen (Riegel) Kepner. Neil graduated from Berwick High School in 1951 and served in the United States Navy from 1953-1957 as an Interior Communications Electrician Second Class on board the USS Caperton, DD-650. Prior to joining the Navy he worked with his father, George, at Marshall Pontiac Garage. He worked at Clewell's Berwick Creamery from 1957-1958 painting and lettering signs and trucks. He attended York Academy of Arts in 1958 and began a lifelong career as a freelance commercial artist. Neil is credited with designing the logos for Berwick's Bicentennial Celebration and the Berwick Fair. He worked at Bercon Packaging Company in Berwick as Graphic Arts Director from 1958 until his retirement in 1996. Neil was well-known for his musical talent and skill with a variety of musical instruments, most notably the saxophone. He played in multiple bands throughout his lifetime, including the Berwick High School Band, Berwick VFW Band, Catawissa Military Band, and Musique, Inc. He was a member of the Danville Community Band, formerly known as the Danville Legion Band, and served as president of the band for over 20 years. As president, he was instrumental in organizing several German exchange programs, as well as a concert trip to Berwick-Upon- Tweed in England. He was also a former Executive Board Member of the American Federation of Musicians/Local 727. Neil is also credited with writing the "Berwick Bulldog Polka." In addition to his love of music, he also enjoyed extensive foreign travel. He was Co-Chairman for the exchange programs between Berwick, PA. and Berwick-Upon-Tweed, England. He enjoyed traveling to Germany and England and has many friends in both countries. Neil was a member of the American Legion, Ranger Hose Company, social member of the Garibaldi Society, and Friendship Fire Company, Danville. He was also a member of Grace Lutheran Church of Berwick. Neil is survived by his wife, Elaine (Fox) Kepner, with whom he would have celebrated a 61st wedding Anniversary on October 17th; daughters-Jody Klinger, Polly Shearer (Ernie), Gretchen Hess (Chuck) and Jennifer Billig (Greg), all of Berwick; grandchildren-Jessica (Matthews) Mutchler, Patrick Shearer, Caitlyn Shearer, Corey Klinger, Jeremy Hess, Maddie Hess, Alex Hess, Rheanon Billig, Chase Billig, 8 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, and his sister, Sandy Gass of North Carolina. A memorial service will be held 11 AM Wednesday at Grace Lutheran Church, 1315 Fairview Ave., Berwick. Friends may call at the church from 10 AM until time of the service. Pastor Jessica Kingsborough will serve as the officiant. Burial will follow at Rose Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be sent to the charity of your choice.