Charles Zepp “Charles” “Butchie”
On July 3, 2023, of Washington Twp. Age 76. Loving companion of 23 years of Nancy Iacobone. Father of Debra Martinelli (Michael), Donna Velardi, Janet Rudicil, Melisa Rakoska-Heary (David), and Charlie Zepp. Beloved grandfather of Michael, Christopher, Tyler, Devon, Ronnie, Nicholas, Shanna (Ronnie), Nikki, Heavenly (Brett), Cody, Burgandi, and Brennan. Proud great-grandfather Alaina, Harper, Liam, Owen, Cadence, Jackie, Ivory, Landon, Paul, Joseph, and Cecilia. Dear brother of Michael Zepp (Gean), Martin Zepp (Denise), Louis Santoni (Kelly), and Richard Santoni (Jessica). He is also loved and survived by Nancy’s 3 children and 5 grandchildren. Loved by nieces and nephews.
Charles was born February 10, 1947, in Brooklyn, NY where he was raised by his beloved father, Martin. He enlisted in the United States Navy at the age of 17 and served his country for four years. He was a Damage Control Petty Officer 2nd Class for the Navy. While in the Navy, Charles learned to play the drums and from that moment on, he lived his life “One beat at a time”, a phrase that he often shared.
Charles played for many bands, which made him lifelong friendships. His most recent band was called Poor Mouth Henry, where he was a drummer and percussionist. Music was a huge part of his life and if he wasn’t behind a drum set, he was tapping away to some rhythm elsewhere. He was happiest when he was playing or had his toes in the sand. He loved the shore and would go every chance he got. He loved to share his passion for music and the shore with his family, which he loved fully and fiercely. Anyone who knew him, would tell you he was the life of the party. He welcomed everyone with a warm smile, a listening ear and showed great compassion to those in need.
Charles was a lover of good food with great company. He lived life to the fullest. His memory will live on in every beat we hear, every lyric we sing and every beach sunset we see.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Charles’s memory may be made to www.dvnf.org.
Charles’s life will be honored and remembered privately by his family.