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JOHN VICTOR EPP
Born: Jan 15, 1931
Date of Passing: May 14, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryJOHN VICTOR EPP
John Victor Epp passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, at the age of 95.
Dad was born in 1931 in Starbuck, MB, and spent his later years at Lindenwood Manor in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Family meant everything to John. He was a loving and devoted husband to Mardee for 66 wonderful years. He was a proud and caring Dad to Chris (Brad), Michele (Dennis), and Brad (Jane). He was an amazing Opa to Stephanie (Corey), Michael (Kyla), Grayson, and Campbell. To his siblings, he was always “Johnnie,” their brother, and he was a dear friend to many.
John had a long and distinguished career with the Manitoba Government, focusing on advancing agriculture through the early adoption of computer technologies across the sector. Long before computers became part of everyday life, John embraced innovation and was known as someone who could figure anything out. He was everyone’s go-to when advice or help was needed - our real-life “Father Knows Best.”
John worked hard throughout his life, but he also knew how to stop and smell the roses - and his roses were all found in his vegetable garden. With his secret formula, the cucumbers he grew were transformed into pickles that ought to have been world famous!
In his younger years, John was a skilled curler in the winter, while summers were filled with camping, fishing, and memorable road trips with family and friends across the country.
Then came the family’s beloved cottage at Big Whiteshell Lake, where countless treasured memories were made. John spent many happy hours fishing, enjoying lake life, and once or twice, you may even have spotted him out on water skis.
In retirement, John and Mardee enjoyed many wonderful years travelling in their motorhome, exploring California, Florida, Arizona, Alaska, and eventually landing for an extended stay in Texas. There, he enjoyed golfing, and together they spent many happy winters with their snowbird friends.
John especially cherished being Opa - first to Stephanie and Michael, and later to Grayson and Campbell. He loved attending their activities, particularly hockey and baseball games, offering grandfatherly advice, and simply spending time with them. Opa was truly the very best.
We know we are fortunate to have had him with us for so many years. His wisdom, kindness, humour, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
A private family service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations to Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
A photo-biography honouring John is accessible through the “Tributes” link below.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 23, 2026
Condolences & Memories (4 entries)
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What a beautiful tribute to a man well-loved and a life well-spent. So many wonderful memories were evoked by the photos you shared. I remember a fun Epp family gathering at your parent’s cottage at Big Whiteshell long before we bought our own cottage. The laughs were loud, the food was abundant (wish I’d had more of Uncle John’s pickles), and the love was spread all around. I left that weekend thinking this is what I’d like to create, a place where people share the simple pleasures of life. I treasure the memories of all the Epp gatherings and of your warm-hearted Dad. He will be missed. P.s. I see Johnnie and Rick shared a passion for fishing! - Posted by: Susan Schroeder (Niece) on: May 23, 2026
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Dear Mardee and family, our sincere condolences to you all. We fondly remember all the good memories we had of times together. - Posted by: Carol and Walter Hargest (Old friends) on: May 23, 2026
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Dear Epp family - Johnnie’s passing shocked me very much as “Johnnie was always there”. I remember Johnnie at our Lake Talon cottage when the 7 Epp siblings and their spouses visited Lottie and me for a week! Johnnie did all the barbecuing for all of us for the week! And what a great job he did - each person’s steak or hamburgers were done precisely as everyone wished. Johnnie stood there with a smile on his face and served everyone. Thank you Heavenly Father for Johnnie Epp and for his loving caring life! May Your love surround Mardee and the entire Epp family at this time of sorrow! Love John Kelsall - Posted by: Kelsall John P (Brother in Law) on: May 23, 2026
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I was lucky enough to have joined the SWAT (Sweaty, Weak and Tired) slowpitch team in Westwood which John was a member of. We had so many laughs not only while playing but at our fall windup get togethers. John was such a witty person and a joy to have a conversation with. My condolences to Mardee and the family. Francine - Posted by: Francine Soko (Friend) on: May 23, 2026
