Hopewell-Loudon teacher was enchanted with nature

12/11/2005

TIFFIN - Evelyn E. Zepernick, 87, who taught in Seneca County's Hopewell-Loudon Local School District for 34 years, died Friday in Tiffin Mercy Hospital from complications of kidney failure.

Mrs. Zepernick, who started her teaching career in the Old Huffer School near Bascom, Ohio, retired from Hopewell-Loudon as a first and second-grade teacher in 1982, but she continued her career in the school system, working as a substitute teacher for another eight years.

"She was generally a quiet person and was very dedicated to her students," Kevin Zepernick, her son, said.

He said his mother "always had a great relationship with her students, and that is why she enjoyed teaching."

Born Evelyn Colwell in Franklin County, Ohio, she grew up in Fostoria and graduated from Amsden High School before completing her bachelor's degree in education from Bowling Green State University in 1938.

She started her teaching career as a general education teacher of students ranging in age from first through eighth grade at a small rural school, her son said.

She married Robert Zepernick on July 20, 1941, and the couple settled in Fostoria before her husband went off to serve in the military during World War II.

A longtime member of Hope Lutheran Church, she was involved in a number of church organizations.

She also enjoyed nature walks and hunting for wild mushrooms, her son said.

"She liked to paint and was very fascinated by nature," Mr. Zepernick said. "She particularly liked taking walks in the woods, and also loved spending time with her children and grandchildren."

Her son recalled that she was an avid reader who had a wide variety of interests, but she particularly enjoyed reading James Michener novels.

Surviving are her husband, Robert Zepernick; sons, Kevin and Roger, and five grandchildren.

Visitation will be after 10 a.m. Tuesday in the Harrold-Floriana Funeral Home, Fostoria, followed by funeral services at 11 a.m. in the funeral home.

The family suggests tributes to Hope Lutheran Church or a charity of the donor's choice.