John Rzepka

John F. Rzepka, 69, passed away peacefully, at the Abraham House in Rome, NY, after a brief illness, October 19, 2025.

John was born in Utica, February 21, 1956, a son of the late Donald and Rosemary (Zongrone) Rzepka. He was raised and educated in Utica and a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. On October 1, 1988 John was joined in marriage to the former Paula LaPorte, a loving union of over 37 years.

For many years, John was employed by the City of Utica, and spent several years as a heavy equipment mechanic for the City Parks Department. He later went on to work for the City of Utica Parking Authority.  Not only was John a mechanic by trade, but it was also his passion. He started working on cars as a teenager and continued throughout his whole life.  He had a knack for body work and could paint a car and have it looking like it came out of the showroom. He enjoyed camping at South Lake, Old Forge and his trips to Nashville, Tennessee, especially the Grand Ole Opry.

John is survived by his wife, Paula Rzepka; two stepdaughters, Melinda Walsh and Jessica Rowland; step-grandaughters, Lilianna and Lucianna Walsh; sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Bruce Kistner; brother-in-law, Paul LaPorte; nieces, Tammy Flynn and April Flynn; nephew, Paul Jr. and Kayla LaPorte; great nephew, Stephen; great nieces, Cyara and Faith; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.  Special thanks to his lifelong friend, Pat Piccione, for his care and support during his battle with cancer.  He was predeceased by his sister-in-law, Marilyn LaPorte.

The family wishes to thank the entire staff and volunteers of Hospice and Palliative Care and the Abraham House, for all their wonderful care and compassion.

John’s family have honored him in a private gathering. John will be laid to rest in St. Agnes Cemetery in Utica.

Online memorials at MattFuneralHome.com

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