Gabriel P. Scepurek

Gabriel P. Scepurek, 65, of Big Rock, Illinois passed away Friday, November 6th, 2026 at Good Samaritan Hospital after a tragic accident. He was born December 29th, 1960 in Little Falls, MN to Alphonse and Mary (Smieja) Scepurek. A man who never knew a stranger, he had a natural gift for making people feel welcome, whether through his quick wit, perfectly timed sarcasm, endless dad jokes, or simply his larger-than-life personality.

Gabe was married to Carla (Arnold) Scepurek for 35 years. Together, they built a life filled with family, memories, and laughter. Above all else, Gabe was a family man and his greatest pride was the life and family they built together.

As a father to Zachary and Amanda, Gabe loved unconditionally. His love wasn’t expressed through grand gestures but through the countless little ways he showed up, helped out, and made life a little easier.

One of Gabe’s favorite roles was being Papa to his grandchildren, Everest and Athena. And if anyone thought becoming a grandfather would make him grow up, they clearly did not know Gabe.Those ordinary moments became extraordinary memories filled with laughter, love and the kind of joy only a Papa like Gabe could bring.

An avid outdoorsman, Gabe was happiest with a fishing pole in his hand, out hunting with his son, or enjoying the fresh air surrounded by the people he loved. He treasured every opportunity to hunt and fish, especially when he could bring his family or friends along. For Gabe, the best part wasn’t always what you caught or brought home, but the memories made along the way.

For over 30 years, Gabe dedicated himself to serving others as a firefighter and paramedic, a career that reflected the very heart of who he was. He was hardworking, dependable, protective and always willing to lend a helping hand. Whether answering the call of duty or showing up for someone in need, Gabe was the kind of man you could count on. He didn’t need recognition or praise; helping others is simply what he did.

Beneath the sarcasm, silliness, and occasional stubborn streak was a generous man with an enormous heart. Gabe was generous, loving, protective, and fiercely devoted to his family and friends. He was always willing to help someone in need, never hesitating to give his time, energy or the shirt off his back. He had a way of making people feel comfortable, accepted, and loved simply by being himself.

Gabe is survived by his loving wife, Carla (Arnold) Scepurek; his children, Zachary and Amanda Scepurek; and his beloved grandchildren, Everest Scepurek and Athena Hicks. He is also survived by his parents, Alphonse and Mary (Smieja) Scepurek; his siblings, Teresa DiPietro (Steve), Sebastian Scepurek, Jacinta LeDonne (Dan), Rebecca McGreal (Mike), and Jacob Scepurek (Charli); along with countless nieces and nephews as well as extended family, and his faithful four-legged companion, Barkley.

He showed up. He made people laugh. He loved with his whole heart. And he had a way of making even the hardest moments feel a little lighter.

In keeping with Gabe’s wishes, family and friends are invited to gather not simply to mourn his passing, but to celebrate a life well lived and a man who brought so much laughter and love into the world. We will be having a memorial service on Saturday, November 28th, 2026 from 1pm-4pm at Burkhart-Eighner Funeral Home at 606 E Arnold Rd., Sandwich, Illinois 60548. Come with your favorite Gabe stories, fondest memories, and maybe even a good dad joke or two. He wouldn’t want it any other way. For more information or to sign the online guestbook, please visit www.EighnerFuneralHomes.com

Turner-Eighner Funeral Home

606 E Arnold Street

Sandwich, Il 60548

(815) 786-2165