Mark Joseph Pepple, aged 69, passed away on December 30, 2025, in St. Louis, Missouri. Born on June 23, 1956, Mark was known for his vibrant curiosity, hardworking nature and commitment to his family.
Mark spent his early education at Blessed Sacrament in Norfolk, Virginia before attending Roger’s High School in Newport, Rhode Island. He furthered his education at the University of Missouri.
Mark always wanted to know how things worked. He would take things apart, study them and put them back together. At the age of 9, he was recharging D-batteries using a self-made container and train transformer. When asked how he knew to do this, he replied it was obvious. He had an unusual aptitude for how things worked and how to fix them. Without formal training he learned electricity, electronics, plumbing, air conditioning, refrigeration, carpentry, and automobile mechanics. He could fix anything.
Professionally, Mark was a respected general contractor specializing in home remodeling and repairs, particularly known for his expertise in window and glass replacement. His work not only improved homes but also built lasting relationships with his clients and colleagues, who respected his knowledge and craftsmanship. Mark’s kindness and consideration of others made him well loved by all.
Mark liked to have fun! His personal life was filled with activities; he loved traveling, skiing, fishing, golfing and baseball. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinal’s fan. Mark loved children and had a knack for captivating their attention and involving them in activities. He also had a special affection for dogs which were his constant companions.
Tragically, Mark fell while working on a roof-top air conditioning unit in 2015. His traumatic brain injury left him disabled. Despite his severe injuries, Mark remained pleasant and calm. He greatly appreciated his dedicated caregivers.
Mark will be remembered for his zest for life, curiosity, kindness, knowledge and willingness to help anyone.
The Pepple Family would like to express our sincere gratitude to his caregivers at Dutchtown-Magnolia Rehabilitation Center, who cared for Mark with the utmost concern and consideration.
He is survived by his loving family, including his siblings Nancy Pepple, Dr. James Pepple, Judith Pepple, Mary Pepple, AnneMarie Brown, and their spouses Paul, Elizabeth, Michael and Sean. Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Anne Pepple, and his brother John Pepple.
SERVICES: A mass to celebrate Mark’s life will be held at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Webster Groves, Missouri on Friday, January 9, 2026 at 10am.
Anne-Marie, What an amazing man Mark is. May God’s presence be with you and your family during this time, to celebrate the life well lived and well loved by Mark. May you feel the peace knowing that Mark is in the loving house of our Heavenly Father, and may God gives you and your family the strength and guidance wherever needed.
Pursuant to the relationship I possess with King Jesus, I hold great joy in knowing that my brother in Christ is being embraced at this very moment by the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. The same God that hung the stars in the sky, is holding Mark in His arms and welcoming him into the eternal Kingdom of Heaven where tears and pain are a distant memory. Exaltation in the presence of his Heavenly creator is Mark’s daily exertion, coupled with the angelic song of praise as all the saved saints sing…” Holy is the Lamb of God.”
Mark, my brother, you’ve reached Zion before we thought you would. I eagerly await the day your sister and I can be with you in the Heavenly realm for all eternity.
Judith, my dearest friend, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear brother. I am happy for you for the precious time you were able to have with him over these past years. My prayers go up for you and the rest of your family for comfort and the peace that only Christ can give. With Love, Dolly
Ann Marie, my dear friend. I am so sorry to hear the loss of your brother. May all the wonderful memories comfort you and your loved ones during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Mark and the Pepple Family were a big part of my life growing up in Norfolk and then later reconnecting to various members of his extended family for over 60 years. I was saddened to learn of his injury and now his passing. The Hope Boys send their condolences because the Pepple family is well remembered. For me, Mark was a force of nature. He had a wonderful sense of humor that got me in trouble several times in my early years, but usually in funny ways I wish I could be in St Louis for the family. I know Mark was well loved and will be missed by so many. I love you all and hope that you receive some peace knowing that Mark has returned to the arms of his wonderful parents and his brother John. Rest in peace my friend. You will be missed.
We send our deepest condolences and love. Mark was amazing person with such a delightful sense of humor. At a Pepple/Hergenroeder family gathering, he and I figured out that our respective fathers had been stationed in Norfolk VA in the late 60’s and that we had attended Blessed Sacrament school together. It’s truly a small world. We have enjoyed wonderful times with Mark and all of the Pepple family. Mark’s beautiful carpentry work remains evident in Jim and Liz’s home. He was exceptionally talented. Mark will be very much missed.