David "Toby" Scott Kuepper

David “Toby” Kuepper, 63, of Merrillville, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2026, after courageously battling cancer for the third time.

Born on July 2, 1962, in Appleton, Wisconsin, to Dick and Arletta Kuepper, Toby was known for his strong work ethic, mechanical talent, and unwavering determination. He was a proud member of Operating Engineers Local 150 for more than 40 years. Throughout his distinguished career, he worked as a mechanic for Kenny Construction on Chicago’s Deep Tunnel Project for over 21 years before retiring in 2012.

Toby was truly a jack of all trades. There seemed to be nothing he could not repair, build, or figure out. Friends, family, and neighbors often relied on his knowledge, resourcefulness, and willingness to lend a hand. While he carried a tough exterior, those who knew him best understood his generous heart and quiet compassion. He faithfully supported numerous charitable organizations through annual donations and believed in helping others whenever he could.

One of Toby’s greatest passions was riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The open road brought him joy, freedom, and countless memories. Whether riding alone or alongside friends, he cherished every mile and embraced the adventure that came with it.

Toby is survived by his step-sister, Linda Carew; his step-brother, Brad McIntyre; his bonus son, J.T. Donahue; his aunts and uncles, Janie (Larry) Hubeny, Pat Kuepper, Pam Breden, Terri Kuepper, and Arthur Pitsch; along with many cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father and stepmother, Dick and Gloria Kuepper; his mother, Arletta Kuepper; his step-sister, Sherry McIntyre; his step-brother, Gary McIntyre; his aunt, Judy Pitsch; his uncles, Bill Kuepper and Rick Breden; and his grandparents, Kathryn and William Kuepper.

Toby will be remembered for his resilience, mechanical ingenuity, generosity, and unwavering loyalty to those fortunate enough to know him. Whether fixing what others thought could not be repaired, lending a helping hand, supporting charitable causes, or simply sharing stories with friends, he left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the things he built and repaired, and the memories shared by family and friends. Though he faced cancer with remarkable strength and determination, it never defined him. Instead, he will be remembered for the way he lived—with grit, kindness, generosity, and an enduring love for the freedom of the open road.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, caregivers, family members, and friends whose compassion, support, and care provided comfort and strength throughout Toby’s courageous battle with cancer.

A private family service will be held in Appleton, Wisconsin.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Toby will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. 

Cremation services entrusted to Hillside Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass: 219-838-0800

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