Michael Vitaly Pepin
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Michael Vitaly Pepin
Michael Vitaly Pepin, 21, passed away on Saturday March 7, 2020 in Overland Park, Kansas as a result of injuries sustained from an accidental gun discharge. The eldest son of Brett Pepin and Linda Walker Pepin, Vitaly was born in Vladivostok, Russia on March 20, 1998. Linda and Brett traveled to Russia in June, 2001 and on July 5, 2001, Vitaly and his younger brother, Konstantin (Konnor), were formally adopted.
Vitaly was 3 1/2 years old when he traveled to his new home in the United States. He was a bright and active little guy with big blue eyes who acclimated quickly to his new surroundings, learning English and attending preschool, all the while looking out for Konnor as he had done so often during their time in Russia. He attended Stilwell Elementary, Lakewood Middle School and Blue Valley West High School, graduating in May, 2016.
In many ways, Vitaly was still exploring what he wanted to do with his life. He was a happy, playful young boy who became a gifted athlete, playing soccer and baseball, wrestling and running track. He was also a dedicated and accomplished competitive gymnast for several years. As a kid, he was often found climbing trees and doing back flips off just about any surface, skills which ultimately led him to enjoy the sport of Parkour. And most days, his mom would discover his pockets to be full of treasures and trinkets he had collected, a hobby that followed him into adulthood. He was a lover of music, laughter and adventure who approached life with a spirit of spontaneity.
Spending time with family at the beach in Marco Island, Florida and taking trips to Lake of the Ozarks and Branson were a few of Vitaly’s favorite pastimes. He gravitated toward being outdoors near mountains, oceans, lakes and rivers but was also known to wander the city in search of odds and ends he could salvage including one of his most memorable rescues, a large slab of marble, which he proudly displayed. Most days he could be found in the company of his girlfriend, Maddie Heiman, and his beloved Husky/Mastiff pup, Khimari, “chillin’ with his squad” or driving around town in his beat-up, old car wearing his signature cap and shades.
Vitaly was a great big brother to Konnor and Gregori. Over the years, the boys wrestled and pestered each other as brothers often do and he felt free to hassle them to his heart’s content, but Lord help anyone who tried to do them harm. He was fiercely protective and was a loyal friend and boyfriend who will be remembered most for taking care of the people he loved.
Vitaly is survived by his mother, Linda Walker Pepin, brothers Konnor, 21, and Gregori, 18; father Brett Pepin and wife, Chantel, step-brothers, Ethan Shaw, 19 and Hayden Shaw, 21; maternal grandfather, Richard Walker; and paternal grandparents, Thomas and Carol Pepin. He will also be missed by his many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.
A Memorial Service will be held Saturday, March 14, 2020 at 10:00 am in the Wesley Covenant Chapel at the United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, 13720 Roe Avenue, Leawood, Kansas 66224. The family will receive visitors beginning at 9:30 am prior to the service. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to: Great Plains SPCA, In memory of Michael Vitaly Pepin, Attn: Development, 5428 Antioch Drive, Merriam, KS 66202
Visits: 19
Thinking of you all and may Vitaly’s memory forever be eternal?
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So sorry for your loss. Remembering Vitaly at Stilwell Elementary brings a smile to my heart. He was full of so much joy and gymnastics moves.
My heart breaks for you, sweet friend. Sending lots of love and hugs your way.
Beloved Friend, i regret the I am in Atlanta and cannot join the many who are thankful for the family you have nurtured. I love your boys……I love their mom. My deep sympathy to Bret and the others who mourn this tragic loss. i pray that the days, which give way to months, will find you filled with memories that give you peace and joy. I love you, Linda.
most genuine smile ever
I am so sorry, he was my good friend throughout highschool. His memory will forever be with me. I have moved to Savannah so I won’t be able to attend. He will always have a place as my bro. R.I.P. my dear friend.
So sorry for your loss! Vitaly was always full of fun and positive energy, accompanied by that sweet smile. Please accept my condolences! ?
I’m so sorry Linda, I have no words… my heart breaks for you and your family .
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your precious Vitaly. I remember a sweet caring boy, always looking out for his brothers. And yes, I remember back flips off of everything! You all are in our thoughts during this terrible tragedy.
Vitaly was one of my son’s childhood friends and seeing them together along with all his siblings just made my days. I cannot believe this has happened to him, to you all… he had his full life ahead of him. I am so very sorry… Antonio was shocked hearing about his friend. May his memory be eternal! God Bless you all! Daniela and Antonio
Vitaly would always come to our house and enjoyed dinners with Slavi and Toni Dillane. Our house was a second home to him!!The kids went to Blue Valley West together and had a super time. Vitaly was creative and a hard working person. He had a lot of insight on life. May he Rest In Peace
So sorry for your loss. So young. Treasure your memories.
Pepin Family, I’m so very sorry for your loss. My love and prayers are with you all during this time. Vitaly made an impression on all who knew him. His kind heart and big smile will stay with us all. Your Lakewood Middle School family sends our condolences.
I am so very sorry Linda for the loss of your beautiful son. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
My heartfelt condolences to the family and their loss. Chantel I’m so sorry to hear my friend. Prayers and hugs to the family of this handsome boy!
Linda, there are no words to share that can heal this. I know the love you have for your boys is like nothing else, so please know I love you and am praying for you and your other two boys. I’m so sad I won’t be there to give you a hug of love as we’re out of town. Prayers of peace my friend. Love you Linda! Pam Arnott
I am so sorry. While at Lakewood Middle School, Vitaly brought a spirit of enthusiasm and joy into our speech and drama classes. I remember his smile and his creative answers to questions. I hope you will find peace and comfort knowing how much he meant to so many in his short time with us.
So sorry for your loss. Prayers to all!
Loss for words. I didnt know this young man, but I wish I had met him. Prayers to the family and friends of this young man. Be strong through this together!
So sorry for your loss. I remember having Vitaly in class at BVWest. He was a kind young man who had a smile that was contagious.
Linda, this is a beautiful tribute and I can just hear your voice and humor in it. I think of that little 3 year old in Russia, and his brothers, and the wonderful home and life you gave them (complete with the dog they called “be genta” and annual cousin backside portraits with your zany Walker family). It is such a blessing you found each other and such a tragedy your time together has been cut short. Vitaly will be missed and remembered by so many. Sending hugs to you from Ohio and I can’t wait to be with you when I can get to KC. ???
Linda, this is a beautiful tribute and I can just hear your voice and humor in it. I think of that little 3 year old in Russia, and his brothers, and the wonderful home and life you gave them (complete with the dog they called “be genta” and annual cousin backside portraits with your zany Walker family). It is such a blessing you found each other and such a tragedy your time together has been cut short. Vitaly will be missed and remembered by so many. Sending hugs to you from Ohio and I can’t wait to be with you when I can get to KC.
I grew up with the Pepin boys directly across from them, I can’t imagine what your entire family is going through… I am very sorry for your loss.
Linda, The Berry family is sending all our love and strength to you and the Walker Pepin family. We want to thank you for the beautiful tribute above. We will be sending a contribution to the Great Plains SPCA in Vitaly’s memory. Sincerely, Danny and Chris, Brent and Beth, and Ken and Raelene Berry
Dear Linda, Konner and Gregori,
You are all so LOVED! You are stronger than you know. Your family and friends from near and far will be in fervent prayer for you as you walk this journey. I am so very, very sorry for the loss of your sweet Vitaly.
Linda,
My heart breaks for you, your father and your entire family. No more words…just that.
Tracy
Chantel and all members of family, I am so truly sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing so much about Vitaly and his life. He was obviously a wonderful young man who will be missed by many. I pray with time your pain from this loss will lessen and you can smile remembering special times.
May the LIVING GOD bind your hearts, and hold each of you close during this very difficult time.
Love,
Michael Nations and family.
You are on my heart today, March 20, 2020, your 22nd birthday. I’m missing you so much!!
Love you always,
Mom
Linda, we are so very sorry and know how much you love your sons. Praying for you and Gregori.
I will hold you closely in my heart. You are missed and I will always love you…..RIP Vitaly Michael Pepin <3