John R. Tuepker

Rutland- John Tuepker, 76, passed away peacefully with Pat by his side on February 13, 2025 at Albany Medical Center. Born in Great Lakes, Illinois on November 8, 1948, he was the son of Betty (Niblett) and William Tuepker. He grew up on the East Coast, living in many places due to his father’s various naval assignments. He attended Northeast Institute of Industrial Technology in Boston, Massachusetts. He later married Joan Carroll and made their home in Rutland. They had five children. Traci (James) Madison of North Clarendon, Brian and Scott of Rutland, Vermont, Eric of Saratoga Springs, New York, and Kimberly (Miguel) Estremera of Feeding Hills, Massachusetts. He is also survived by his friend and former wife Patricia Sanborn and their children Randee (Zeb) Lindholm of Rutland and Sam (CJ) Riden of Underhill, Vermont.

John was a long-time (nearly 40-year) veteran of the Rutland Police Department. For his time with the department he worked with five Chiefs of Police and a number of Interim Chiefs. He was known for being a very stern but fair enforcer of the law. He enjoyed a very colorful and exciting career and valued the great friends that he was fortunate to have worked with along the way.

For many years, John enjoyed playing adult softball, flag football, and basketball. And of course golf. Many will remember John walking the downtown streets with his best friend Gus Louras, bantering and joking with all along the walkway. Gus passed away in November, 2020 and John greatly missed his good friend.

He is also survived by his brothers, James (Joy) of Centerville, Massachusetts and Michael (Kimberly) of Marston Mills, Massachusetts and many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Mitchell and Charlie. He will be greatly missed.

A celebration of life will be held at the Rutland Country Club on Tuesday, February 18th, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00pm. A eulogy will be delivered at 2:00pm, followed by an invitation for stories, memories, and personal grievances. A private burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution in John’s memory to the charitable organization of your choosing.

Arrangements are under the direction of Clifford Funeral Home.