Francis Berl Kapper Sr.

Dr Francis Berl Kapper passed away quietly at 3:45pm on Wednesday June 8, 2022 surrounded by his family and loved ones. Dr Kapper (Frank), is survived by his seven children: Francis Kapper Jr; Suzanne Vassi (Mike); Cynthia Kapper Vance (Chris); Timothy Kapper (Tammy); Theresa Kapper; Patty Davis (Steve) and Elizabeth Chaffin (Jeff). All were with him during his final hours. Frank also has twelve grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Frank was born on the East side of St Louis Missouri on April 27, 1934 to Agnes Mae Kapper and Gilbert Kapper. His brothers Ed Kapper, Gene Kapper, Mike Kapper and a sister Joyce Kapper predeceased Frank. His remaining brother, Raymond Turley, still resides in Delaware. Frank by all measures was a true American hero - a Golden gloves boxer at age of 15, he lied about his age to join the US Marine Corps at 16 so he could follow his two older brothers to Korea. He mustered out of the Marines as a decorated sergeant and a knife fighting instructor at the ripe old age of 18. He then headed back to St Louis to complete high school where he passed his GED and then set his sights on college. He completed his bachelor's degree and met the love of his life and future wife Patricia Grewe. He married Patricia (Pat) at the age of 24 in 1957 while continuing with his postgraduate education. Kids came quickly as Frank studied and worked full time to earn a living to take care of his growing family. He completed both his Master’s degree and a PhD before he was 35. Now with 7 kids, he helped Pat take care and nurture them while working in the scientific field in multiple private sector and government positions. Somehow during this time, he also found time to pick up a Judo 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree black belt certification and become an accomplished high power and shotgun shooter. Frank culminated a long and distinguished career as a US government employee as Assistant Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Technology Transfer. He then worked in the private sector before finally fully retiring from Corning to enjoy his hobbies and traveling the world with Pat and family. He was a member of the 5th Virginia Cavalry for 48 years and loved shooting with his many friends and teammates at the N-SSA. His joyful smile and cheerful personality were always a welcome sight to everyone around the campfire, and he will be sorely missed by all that knew and loved him. The greatest thing Frank valued among all the accomplishments, commendations and awards he received during his life was always his children, siblings, friends and most importantly the everlasting love of his wife Pat, who he has now been reunited with forever. A visitation will be held at Nelsen Funeral Home on Wednesday June 15, 2022 from 5-8 p.m, with a Funeral Mass on Thursday June 16, 2022 at 1 p.m at St. Bede Catholic Church. In Lieu of flowers please make send memorial contributions in Frank's name to the Alzheimer's Association or the Wounded Warrior Project. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com for the Kapper family.