Durward James Pepoon, 71, passed away on Sunday, January 14 at Mercy Medical Center in Springfield, Massachusetts. He was born December 5, 1946 in Pittsfield, MA to Charlotte M. McCort and Robert K. Pepoon Sr. He was a 1965 graduate of Pittsfield High School. After High School he voluntarily enlisted in the United States Air Force from 1966 to 1970 and served during Vietnam War as an Air Force Policeman, finishing with an honorable discharge, obtaining the rank of sergeant. He married Susan Jean Messier of Hampden, MA on December 5, 1976. He leaves three children, James Richard Pepoon of Belchertown and his wife Kimberly, Scott William Pepoon of Springfield and his wife Kathryn, and Tanya Jean Hackett of Wareham, MA, and her husband Frank Hackett. He also leaves behind his five grandchildren, Hannah, Cameron, Keeghan, Rowan, and Kiernan. He also leaves behind many friends and family, including the entire Messier/Chisholm families, Dan and Donna Gaskin of Westfield, and Amy Haas of Belchertown. He was predeceased by the love of his life and soul mate Susan, on June 17, 2015. Always known for his dedication and hard work ethic, over the years he was employed at Anderson Company from 1970-78, Milton Bradley 1978-2003, Baystate Health 2004-2010, and HealthSouth 2011-present. He also worked part time at The East Longmeadow Council on Aging from 1980-2005. His passions included the New England Patriots, which he was a lifelong fan. He was a member of the Pioneer Valley Bonsai Society in Agawam and St. Patrick’s Church in Springfield. He loved gardening, the Nubble Lighthouse in Maine, tattoos, reading, writing poetry, and had an odd affinity for techno music. He was known for his witty and dry sense of humor. He was affectionately known by friends and family by his nickname Peps, or Pepsi, which was given to him in high school. He was lovingly called Homer by his daughter Tanya. He seemed to make friends wherever he went. He was a kind, considerate, loving, and thoughtful person, and will be missed forever. Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 19, 2018 starting at 8:45am at Byron Keenan Funeral Home, 1858 Allen St, Springfield followed by a Liturgy of Christian Burial at 10am in St. Patrick’s Church, Springfield. Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 18 from 4-7pm at the funeral home. Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew St, Springfield, MA 01104 OR to Make-A-Wish Foundation of Mass, 181 Park Ave #12, West Springfield, MA 01089. For further information please visit byronkeenan.com. 

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