Vincent Eric Rupe passed away July 21, 2021 in Oklahoma City. Eric was born September 4, 1955 in Santa Barbara, CA, to David Carl and Betty Frances Keoppel. Eric grew up in Santa Barbara working with his dad in the sprinkler business and always helping people. In his leisure time he enjoyed surfing.
Eric was self-employed, creating many commercial and residential landscapes around Oklahoma City and Edmond, OK. Eric was a pastor to the homeless community, Director of LCEM, City of Hope, Feeding the Broken Hearted Ministries, Inc., a nonprofit 501c3. Eric was a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church and had a close, personal relationship with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ all his life.
Eric and his wife Joan housed in their home hundreds of homeless individuals. Many grown and young people who have been through the Christ-centered program often call them dad, mom, grandpa and grandma.
Eric was preceded in death by his parents and a nephew, Christopher.
Eric is survived by his wife, Joan Lynn Rupe; his daughter, Tiffany Wilson Roberts of Bentonville, AR, and granddaughter Anna Belle Mackey; his son, Shyon Eric Keoppel of Los Angeles, CA; stepdaughter, Jamie Ruiz (Sammy) of Tulsa, and step-grandchildren Amie, Kenny and Noel; sisters, Deborah Hope Reed (George) of Booneville, MS, and Stephanie Francine Gleeson of Santa Barbara, CA; niece Summer, nephews Jeremiah, Fred, Brian and Sean.
A memorial service to celebrate Eric’s life will be at 6 pm, Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at Will Rogers Garden Ed Lycan Conservatory, 3400 N.W. 36th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73112.
Fond memories may be left for the family at www.ChapelHill-OKC.com
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