Heriberto C. Sepulveda

Heriberto Carmello Sepulveda Marcano, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend to many, passed away on January 30th, 2024, in Independence, Missouri. He was born on July 16th, 1951, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, to Heriberto Sepulveda and Maria Marcano Reyes. Heriberto's life was filled with passion and love for his family and the things he held dear.

As a former professional baseball player and career Master Welder, he dedicated himself to his work with unwavering commitment and skill. His love for baseball extended beyond his own career as he remained an avid fan and teacher of baseball throughout his life. Not only did Heriberto excel in baseball, but he also had a deep appreciation for music—especially Salsa.

As a self-taught musician skilled in various instruments, he often teamed up with other musicians and enjoyed performing in various venues in the greater Kansas City area. He founded the Dominican Society of Kansas City to share his love and experience of the Afro-Caribbean culture and heritage through music, dance, food, and great conversations with others.

Over the years (because of his excellent dancing skills), he was often called upon by the city council, the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and the office of the mayor of the greater Kansas City to perform at cultural festivals, give Latin dance lessons, and anything related to the Afro-Caribbean culture and he never disappointed. His intelligence shined through in every conversation; those who knew him will always remember him as a man full of wisdom whose insights were always worth listening to.

Despite all these accomplishments and talents that defined him professionally and personally, perhaps his strong faith set him apart. In addition to being an extrovert who loved meeting new people from all walks of life with warmth and kindness, his polite demeanor made everyone around him feel welcome. Heriberto valued knowledge greatly, reflecting how well-spoken he was during any discussion.

Above all else, Heriberto's devotion, dedication, and faith in God and his family always served to keep him centered and steadfast in all aspects of his life; this dedication led to his service in many roles in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints for decades, including as the Bishop of the Bronx Ward in New York City.

A loving husband to Angela Sepulveda; a caring father to Robert (wife Nyysha), Angela Cristina (husband Ralph); Marcos and Zoram; adoring grandfather to Mariano, Amaiya, Ralph II, Noriya, Liana, Givanni, and Jaylen—and cherished sibling among Minerva, Mario, Marcia, Eduvigis, Pedro, and Maximo—all who meant everything to him. The loss of such an extraordinary man has left an irreplaceable void within the hearts of those who knew him best.

However difficult this time may be for those mourning his passing, the memories shared will forever be kept alive, as will the spirit of Heriberto Carmello Sepulveda Marcano, a remarkable individual whose legacy will continue through each person touched by his presence.  

“Baseball is life.”
“You don’t play the ball; the ball plays you.”
“Life is not good without Food, music, and GOD.”
“La pelota es mejor de tene amores.”
“Always be a leader, not a follower.”