Racine- Leonard W. Kapellusch, 94, passed away at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center on Monday, June 7, 2010. Leonard was born in Racine on August 26, 1915 to the late Frank and Josephine (nee: Laiaka) Kapellusch. On January 27, 1934 he was united in marriage with the love of his life, Eloise M. (nee: Kirsch) Kapellusch, who preceded him in death on March 20, 2002. With a profound work ethic and dedication, Leonard was employed for over 44 years by Belle City Malleable, retiring in February of 1978. He was a longtime member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. Leonard enjoyed gardening and watching sports, especially baseball and wrestling. Above all, he loved being in the surroundings of his entire family, especially the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Surviving are his children, James (Carol) Kapellusch, Jacqueline “Jackie” (Chuck) Kierstyn, Marilyn Jensen, Brent (Betty) Kapellusch and Michael (Vicki) Kapellusch; daughter-in-law, Charlotte Weidner; 28 grandchildren; many adored great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; brothers, Ernest and Edward (Shirley) Kapellusch; sister-in-law, Lorraine Kapellusch; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends too numerous to mention by name. In addition to his parents and wife, Leonard was preceded in death by his son, Leonard G. Kapellusch; daughter, Dianne Hamilton; granddaughter, Penny Christensen; great-grandson, Jacob Kapellusch; great-great-grandson, Michael Williams-Hankins; sisters, Ruth Belasic, Josephine Vassh, Ella Peterson and Esther Short; and brothers, Frank, Lawrence and Clarence Kapellusch. In accordance with Leonard’s wishes, private family services will be held with Rev. Diane Tetrault officiating. Interment will take place in West Lawn Memorial Park. A heartfelt note of thanks to the entire staff at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints, especially 2B, Hospice, Dr. Ansani and nurse Ana, for their compassionate care and support. Your kindness and generosity will always be remembered.
Joann Kapellusch Kuklinski says
I am Frank’s daughter and I enjoyed many lunches with your father, Uncle Ernie, Jo and Alice.
Shirley (Weisbrod) Gayhart says
Maybe the only one who will remember me is Jackie who babysat for me when we lived next door to you on Jay Eye See. I remember fun times in your big side yard. My Dad (Arnie) always had such nice things to say about your Dad. He was a good neighbor and a great friend. I also remember your Grandma as the Grandma I never had. She made for me, the most beautiful winter coat, snowpants, hat and hand muff for me. Something I will always remember about Grandma Kapellusch. Please accept my deepest sympathy and heartfelt thoughts.