Passed away on Monday, May 5th, 2025.
Beloved wife of Dennis Reupke; devoted mother of Melanie Reupke, April (Scott) Allen and Eric Reupke; adoring grandmother of Jordan and Adrian Allen; loving daughter of the late Anselmo and Maxima Santomin (nee Martinez); our dearest sister, aunt, great aunt, cousin, and friend to many.
Lolita was the youngest child of nine and grew up on lush farmland in the Tarlac Province of the Philippine Islands. As a child she was described as happy-go-lucky and was filled with a mischievous spirit, which was known to get her into trouble more than once. As an adult, she became driven to pursue a higher education in search of a better life. She traveled to Manila to study at Far Eastern University where she earned a degree in economics. Insatiable for new experiences, she also studied dressmaking and even taught pre-school after first emigrating to the United States.
In the U.S., Lolita found her passion studying nursing at Wayne State University where she graduated in the late 1970s. During this time, she met and fell in love with her future husband Dennis, whom she married in 1980. Together, they eventually settled in south St. Louis County and started their family. She continued to work as a registered nurse for many years before retiring in 2020.
Lolita loved to spend time with her family and friends. She enjoyed shopping, cooking and traveling. She believed in appearance, always dressing with style and keeping a warm, inviting home. In the later part of her life, she found tremendous joy in being a “Lola,” or grandmother. She loved her two grandsons dearly and spent much of her time with them, often spoiling them with gifts and treats.
Lolita has left an indelible mark on this world. To know her was to love her. We love you so much Mom, Lola, Auntie, Liling. You are in our hearts forever.
SERVICES: Visitation at KUTIS AFFTON CHAPEL (10151 Gravois Rd., 63123) on Monday, May 12th from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 AM. Interment will be held in private.
When someone becomes a memory the memory becomes a treasure.
We will miss you.
Dear Eric and family ,
Please know you all are in our prayers . Please know our door is always open . God be with you all. May her love for you and memories be your strength.
Love Alan, Jackie, Zoe
Lolita,
You have been my sister-in-law for the majority of my life going back to your beautiful wedding. You are gone far too soon. I will greatly miss you. Love and prayers!
Lolita will be missed. She was a sweet, kind, loving and compassionate person to all she met. She was dedicated to her family and friends. It was an honor to know her and have her in our life. You will always be remembered. Rest in peace.
Dear Reupke Family,
I was saddened to hear of Auntie Liling’s passing. Please accept my sincere condolences during this difficult time. Though I didn’t know her well, I know how deeply loved and respected she was by those around her.
May your hearts find peace and comfort in the support of friends, family, and in the cherished memories you hold. My thoughts are with you all.
With sympathy,
Lorna Santomin (La Mirada, CA)
Lolita always knew what she wanted and was willing to work hard to obtain it. She and Dennis were a real pleasure to help when they built their home in Oakville, A tough negotiator, she always bargained with a twinkle in her eye and followed with a wide grin as if she knew she was pushing the limit, but had to ask! Her unconditional love of family is an inspiration to us all. I am glad she took some time to travel the world after ending her nursing career. She was a one of a kind and will be missed!