Roy "Butch" A. Eppeland
June 8, 1960 ~ February 10, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Roy A. Eppeland, a beloved husband, cherished son, and devoted (and sometimes annoying) big brother. Roy, born on June 8, 1960, was the first child born to John R. Eppeland and Myrna Kiecker Eppeland, and was confirmed in the Christian faith at St. Paul's Ev. Lutheran Church in St. James, Minnesota. Despite a childhood disdain for piano practice, Roy's musical talents shone through as an outstanding trumpet and flugelhorn player. His love of Deep Purple, Rush and The Who was not appreciated by his sisters until they got older and could listen at their preferred decibel levels.
Roy graduated from St. James High School in 1978 and went on to attend Bemidji State University. On September 26, 1992, he married the love of his life, Connie Schrader, with whom he shared over three decades of love and companionship. He died at UT Hospital in Tyler, Texas on February 10, 2025.
In his professional life, Roy worked in the carpentry business before relocating to Palestine, Texas, where he served as a sergeant at Coffield State Penitentiary. At the time of his passing, he was employed by Champion Homes as a skilled cabinetmaker and was designing Connie's dream home.
Roy, nicknamed Butch, was known for his hobbies, which included hunting, woodworking, and undertaking remodeling projects for friends and family. His generous spirit and selfless nature were evident to all who knew him. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and put others before himself.
Roy lived a simple and fulfilling life in the woods of Brushy Creek near Palestine, Texas, in a 130-year-old Little Rock house with his beloved Connie.
He is survived by his wife, Connie; his mother, Myrna Eppeland; and his sisters Chris (and husband Dr. Steve) Pitcher, Vonnie (and husband Daniel) Gratz, and Marie (and husband Dr. Timothy) Farley Christiansen. Roy also leaves behind cherished nieces and nephews, including Dr. Austin Pitcher (wife Dr. Valerie Au), Dr. Morgan Pitcher (fiancé Cory Stockwell), Erik Gratz, Aaron "Chunk" (wife Megan) Gratz, Lauren (husband Seth) Moffett, Michaela Farley, and Samuel Farley (significant other Kaylee Enevold). His legacy continues through nieces Gena, April, Nikki and Dani as well as his great-nieces Rhiannon and Freya. Roy was preceded in death by his father, John Eppeland, his brother-in-law Robert Farley, his nephew, Alex Pitcher and brother-in-law David Hartman.
Butch will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held in St. James, Minnesota at a later date to honor his life, and celebrate the love, kindness, and joy he brought to his family and friends.
Cremation services for Roy A. Eppeland are in Care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit his online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.
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Roy was a genuine friend to me. He always had a positive view and encouraged everyone around him to be bigger and better. He took time to hear my challenges when he himself had his own. We used to go snowmobiling in the late night hours and stop in the middle of a dark field and share life stories. He enjoyed grilling ginormous steaks for friends. The meat market always knew there was a huge sale for custom cut steaks when roy came in the door. He was a patient chef that cooked with passion and love for friends in his recipe. You will not be forgotten my friend.
BUTCH You were a wonderful Sargent friend and co worker. YOU will be trully missed. Prayers for family at this time.
I first met Butch when I became his Sgt at Coffield and then later after we had both left TDCJ we became coworkers again and loved working with him. Over the years we have built a special friendship and he was always there for me when I needed a hug or advice. He will be greatly missed. His family are in my thoughts and prayers!
Eppels, you are an absolute blast to be around. Thank you to you and Connie for opening your heart and allowing myself to be a part of your family. You’ve had been through a plethora of storms, hardships, and hangups to last 3 lifetimes. My heart hurts for Connie and the family. I love you all and again thank you for being a part of my life.
Mr Epp, such a kind soul and sweet man. It was a privilege to work with him. So many great memories. RIP you will be missed.
Ms Epp im so so sorry for your loss, hugs and prayers
I had the pleasure of working with his dear Connie. My thoughts and prayers are with the family. May the Lord give you strength and help you find some peace during this most difficult time.
Our sincere condolences ?!
If he is anywhere near as sweet as dear Mrs. Eppeland, then this world is going to be a darker place without him. I am so sorry for your loss, let me know if there’s anything we can do for you. Sending love your way.
Butch was one of the first friends I made when I moved out here. He was the most generous man and loved to help others! He never missed a chance to tell you a good story and had the best hugs! I will forever miss his contagious smile! Our thoughts and prayers are with the family.