John E. Koepele

Beloved son of Henry and Hazel (nee McMann) Koepele. Also survived by his cousin Paul Braly of Colorado.

John was a Korean War Veteran serving in the Army from 1952-1954 as an Intelligence Operations Specialist. At times he was assigned to infiltrate enemy lines to watch troop movements. He facilitated the movements of spies through American lines into enemy territory and then helped return them safely.

After the war he went to Detroit College of Applied Science and graduate in 1956 with a degree in production engineering and managements. In the mid 1950s he joined the Detroit Judo Club at 6 mile and Livernois. A few years later he started the St. Clair Shores Judo Club where he taught and mentored hundreds of students. He earned a fourth degree black belt.

He had a passion for solving problems working with manufacturing and machines. He specialized in experimental products including manufacturing pumps.

He felt one of his best accomplishments was working until he was 77 years old. He would have continued to work but prostate cancer slowed him down.

He continued solving problems and prided himself in always having a backup plan including owning 2 Mercedes Benz automobiles in case one of his cars did not start. He also enjoyed owning a Cushman motor scooter like the one he had as a child growing up.

Visitation Sunday, July 31 from 4-9pm with a Funeral Service at 7pm at Kaul Funeral Home 35201 Garfield, Clinton Township.

Entombment Monday, August 1 at 10am at Oakview Cemetery.

Donations made to New Beginnings Animal Rescue 2502 Rochester Rd., Royal Oak, MI 48073.