There are hundreds of Barbeque Competitions held every year in the United States. Dick Jepsen had undoubtedly known of all of them, been to most of them, judged at many and brought that love and knowledge to the Island for the 12-year run of the Washington Island Death’s Door Barbeque. His sudden passing has caused a deep sense of loss, not only to his family, but to the world of Barbeque that he knew so well.
On the Island, the Death’s Door Barbeque began 13 years ago – with a group that convened and looked for an event that could fill the tourism gap between summer beach time, fishing, swimming fun and the fall senior season and winter quiet season. In addition to Dick, Fred Hankwitz, Lisa Gibson, Butch Gordon, Andy Munao Sr., and Janet Hanlin were involved in the planning of the first Death’s Door BBQ. They all pitched in to get the first license. Dick’s knowledge of barbeques and contests, around the country, helped that idea rise to the top of the Kansas City Sanctioned Barbeques. Only one summer was missed due to the Covid pandemic!
An event of this magnitude and complexity could not be a one-person job. Through the years, other leaders joined the DDBBQ Committee. The current committee consisting of Dick Jepsen, Tom Nikolai, Cathy Meader, Mary Lynn Andersen, Jake Farm, Elise Haller and Mary Ann Glowacz made this event possible, along with the Ferry Line, Town Crew, Electric Cooperative, Lion’s Club, Airport personnel, numerous sponsors and our amazing group of volunteers. We worked very closely with members of the Kansas City Barbeque Society and are grateful for all their assistance in planning this event. Profits from the DDBBQ were donated back to the community on a yearly basis.
After an emotional discussion with the Jepsen Family, representatives of the Kansas City Barbeque Society and the DDBBQ Committee a very difficult decision was made to cancel the Death’s Door Barbeque.
The Death’s Door BBQ is a testament to our island spirit and values. Pushing through our grief, we’ll be forever proud and grateful for every person who played a role in the BBQ’s success.