Dr. Joseph John Kepes

Dr. Joseph John Kepes passed away on Sunday, Sept. 18. He died peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 25, 1931 in Cleveland, Ohio, Joseph was the only child of Joseph and Mary (Koren) Kepes. Those who remain to mourn and celebrate him are his wife of 62 years, Joanne, and his children Art (Cathy), Terri (Dave Etzkorn), Chris (Suzanne Boys), Jerry (Magnolia Sereno), Nora, MaryAnn (Jim Lersch); grandchildren, Ben (Lindsay), Rachel, Tori and Roman Kepes, Lauren (Zachary Parish) and Jilli Etzkorn, Jason (Jessie) Kepes, Angela and Isabella Sereno Kepes, Maddie, Nate, Alex and Sammi Lersch; and great grandchildren Sarah, Lilly, Zander, Ava Jo, and Finn Kepes. A graduate of Case Institute of Technology (now Case Western), Joe went on to earn a Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics from the University of Notre Dame. Joe and Joanne married after his first year of graduate school and began their family life while residing in the University's Vetville. After receiving his PhD, Joe took a position as a Senior Scientist at Bettis Atomic Power in Pittsburgh. In 1962, Joe's career took a turn toward academia when he was hired as an Associate Professor of Physics at the University of Dayton and became the Chairman of the Physics Department at a critical point in the development of that department. Named a full Professor in 1970, Joe's responsibility, beyond teaching, was to expand the department by building a cadre of PhD level physics teachers to make that happen. In the interest of attracting good students, Joe learned recruitment skills from the football coach, instituting the summer physics programs aimed primarily at pre-med students to allow them to complete their physics requirements. He retired from U.D. in 1997. Joe enjoyed his much-loved game of golf, a sport he continued until his 82nd year. In retirement, Joe turned his interest to exploring the relationship between science and religion by reading theology and theological history. He also enjoyed a good mystery! His love of and collection of classical music followed him throughout his life. Always accepting of others and a man of exceptional integrity, honor and patience, Joe was a gentle soul. He will be missed by all who knew him. Family will welcome friends and loved ones at St. Charles Catholic Church in Kettering, Ohio Saturday, September 24, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. until time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. Interment will follow immediately at Calvary Cemetery. If desired, contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Condolences: www.tobiasfuneralhome.com.