Edward F. Rzepka “MRED” went home to heaven on May 22, 2025.
Born in Chicago, IL, on July 21, 1939, he enjoyed his childhood, riding his bike with his buddies to Wrigley field, watching the Cubs play ball. He also enjoyed the BEARS. He graduated from Kelly High School, in Chicago, as Valedictorian of his winter graduating class.
He served in the U.S Army from 1957 to 1961.
On November 24, 1962, he married Eleanor Schwarze at St. Stephens Lutheran Church in Horicon. They were blessed with three children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Ed has touched the lives of so many, through his Chicago roots. He and Eleanor eventually moved to Hartford, in 1968, where he worked at Chrysler Out Board and Midas. His faith was an important part of him and being on the school board at Peace Lutheran School for many years. He also was the boys’ basketball coach, of which that tradition is being carried on by his oldest son.
He was with the Hartford Emergency Squad from July 1, 1981, to January 1, 2004. This was a very important and most memorable time he spent with his “Squad Family”, as assistant chief and later chief. He had the opportunity to fly with “Flight for Life” twice as a ride along and was EMT of the year in 2002. His dedication and love for this organization, the countless hours, and acts of kindness, the support for his family and community, his legacy will live on through all who worked with him. Thirty years with Sycamore Tree, the children he all got to know still remember him. Wisconsin Donor Network also became a part of his life after Eleanor had also been involved for so long.
The two enjoyed working at the State and County Fairs, attending seminars and helping those families. His love for music continued through his remaining days, thanks to Lily Hospice.
May his memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved him. Carry on his way by:
FAITH – FAMILY – COMMUNITY – SERVICE & COMPASSION.
All are invited to a memorial service on August 3, at 1 p.m., at Peace Lutheran Church (1001 Center St., Hartford, WI 53027). Following the service family will greet at an open reception in the church fellowship hall from 2 until 4 p.m.
