R. Jean (Miller) Reppert

Ruth Jean “Jeannie” Reppert, age 74, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, October 12, 2023, while surrounded by her family at her home in Mishawaka.  Jean was born December 9, 1948, in South Bend, Indiana to the late John and Velma (McCallister) Miller. She was a graduate of Adams High School, class of 1967 and on November 9, 1968, she married Robert M. Reppert.

Surviving is her husband of 55 years, Robert M. Reppert of Mishawaka and their 5 sons, Bob (Patti) Reppert of Mishawaka, Donald Michael (Jill) Reppert of Osceola, Kevin P. Reppert of South Bend, J.J. Reppert and Brian (Jessica) Reppert, both of Osceola.  Jeannie is also survived by 10 grandchildren: Kyle, Tyler, Kole, Grant, Trent, Kooper, Allison, Carson, Lily and Beckett and her siblings Carol Greenlee of Kalamazoo, Michigan and Jim (Joyce) Miller of South Bend. Surviving as well is her “adopted father” PJ Tracy and numerous friends made in the neighborhood as well as through the brotherhood of the Police and Fire departments and the US Military.

A private service will be held for her family and close friends and a celebration of her life will be held for the public from 4-7 pm Thursday, October 19, 2023, at St. Mark Missionary Church, 55240 Bittersweet Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Service of Osceola has been entrusted with her care.

Jean was a homemaker who had a tremendous love for the outdoors. Whether she was tending to her flower gardens, creating delectable treats in her kitchen, or skillfully sewing beautiful creations, her hands were always busy bringing beauty to the world around her. Jean's talent for painting landscapes was discovered later in her life and her paintings captured the beauty of nature with each stroke of her brush.

In her younger years, Jean developed a passion for figure skating and baton twirling and she continued to enjoy watching competitions throughout her life. A devoted sports fan, Jean proudly cheered for the Chicago Bears and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football teams, along with any and all sports her grandchildren participated in. Together with her husband, Bob, she explored the local Amish country, creating memories of love, companionship, and shared adventures.

Jean was not just a mother to her five boys; she was the epitome of motherly love and strength. Her home was a haven for her sons and their friends, and she proudly lived up to the title of "neighborhood mom." She was also lovingly known to the numerous Police Officers, Firefighters, Medics and friends of the family as “Ma Reppert.” Jean's open-door policy, extended a warm welcome to anyone in need, and her nurturing spirit and unconditional love left a permanent mark on the lives she touched.

Fiercely loyal and deeply patriotic, Jean stood with pride as each of her sons chose paths of service in the military, police, fire department, and public service sector in Mishawaka and St. Joseph County. Her unwavering love, support, and encouragement paved the way for their commitment to making a difference in their community.

Jean's infectious positivity, her beautiful smile that could brighten the darkest days, her wisdom, enthusiasm for life, and her sharp sense of humor and wit that brought joy to those around her will be greatly missed.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of her life, or leave a message of comfort for her family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.