In a poignant moment amid profound grief, the younger sister of Dr. Spencer Tepe delivered an emotional tribute during the joint funeral service for her brother and his wife, Monique Tepe. “He is my biggest fan and always make me smile,” she said, capturing the essence of a brother who was not only a devoted family man but also a constant source of joy and encouragement. The words, spoken through tears, resonated deeply with the more than 1,000 mourners gathered to honor the Columbus, Ohio, couple whose lives were tragically cut short in a shocking double homicide on December 30, 2025.
Spencer L. Tepe, 37, a respected dentist known for his warm demeanor and dedication to his patients, and Monique F. Tepe, 39, a loving stay-at-home mother celebrated for her bright smile, infectious laugh, and bubbly personality, were found fatally shot in the upper floor of their Weinland Park home in the 1400 block of North 4th Street. Friends, concerned after Spencer failed to appear for work and Monique did not respond to calls, alerted authorities around 10 a.m. that morning. Inside the home, the couple’s two young children—Emilia, 4, and Beckham, 1—were discovered physically unharmed in a nearby room, along with the family dog. The discovery sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an intensive investigation that ultimately led to the arrest of Monique’s ex-husband, Dr. Michael David McKee, on charges including aggravated murder.
The couple met online and built a relationship grounded in love, respect, and a healthy dose of goofiness. They married on January 30, 2020, and were just weeks shy of their fifth anniversary when tragedy struck. Spencer, who practiced at Athens Dental Depot, was remembered as a devoted mentor through programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters, where he served as a positive influence for young people. Colleagues and friends described him as laid-back yet always ready with advice, a man who prioritized family above all. Monique, who held a master’s degree in early childhood education, transitioned to full-time motherhood after having their children. She was known as a patient, joyful parent, an avid baker, and a thoughtful planner who infused every day with enthusiasm.
Their joint obituary, released through Schoedinger Northwest Funeral Home, painted a picture of two “extraordinary people whose lives were filled with love, joy, and deep connection to others.” Spencer is survived by his children, sister Madeleine Misleh (and her husband Rob), and parents Tim and Yvonne Tepe. Monique leaves behind the same children, her siblings Joseph Sabaturski and Amanda Roberts, parents Nereida and Ignatius Sabaturski, and grandmother Adelia Soto-Lopez.
The funeral, held in early January 2026 in Upper Arlington, Ohio, became a powerful testament to the couple’s impact. Over 1,000 people attended, a number that family members said spoke volumes about their kindness and welcoming nature. Amid the sorrow, tributes highlighted Spencer’s role as a big brother. Madeleine Misleh, two years his junior, shared memories of growing up together, emphasizing how he had always been her biggest supporter—cheering her on, making her laugh, and lifting her spirits even in tough times. Her words, “He is my biggest fan and always make me smile,” brought many in the congregation to tears, underscoring the unbreakable sibling bond that endured until the end.
The service also focused on the future of Emilia and Beckham, who were shielded from the immediate horror but now face life without their parents. Relatives noted how the children’s bright energy mirrors that of Spencer and Monique, with one family member observing that “they shine through her.” The young daughter even said goodbye to her “mommy and daddy” in her own innocent way, a heartbreaking yet hopeful sign of resilience amid unimaginable tragedy.
As the community mourns, the investigation’s resolution brought a measure of justice. McKee, Monique’s ex-husband from a brief marriage that ended in divorce in 2017, was arrested in Rockford, Illinois, days after the killings. Family members, including brother-in-law Rob Misleh, spoke publicly about Monique’s determination to leave a previous relationship marked by emotional challenges, describing her as someone “willing to do anything” to build a better life. Authorities believe the motive ties back to that history, though the full details continue to unfold in court.
In the wake of the tragedy, friends and organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters have shared legacies beyond the headlines—stories of mentorship, community involvement, and unwavering positivity. Spencer was remembered as a “perfect model” for those he guided, while Monique’s caring heart touched everyone she met.
The loss of Spencer and Monique Tepe has left a void in Columbus, but their memory endures through the lives they touched, the children they raised with love, and the family bonds that persist. As Madeleine’s tribute reminds us, even in the darkest moments, the light of a brother’s smile and unwavering support can still bring comfort. The couple’s story is one of profound love cut short, but also of enduring legacy—one that continues to inspire those left behind.
