Darlene Kapeller

Darlene (nee Phinney) Kapeller Asleep in Jesus on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the age of 89.

Loving wife of the late Robert Kapeller, Sr.; Devoted mom of LuAnn (Michael) Hemenway, Robert (Patty) Kapeller, Jr., Cindy Kapeller, Ronald (Mindy) Kapeller and Julie (Paul) Bossung; Cherished grandmother of 11 and great-grandmother of 17.  

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents Eugene and Dorothy (nee Vollmer) Phinney.

Today we gather to honor and remember a woman whose life was defined by love, devotion, and quiet strength.

She was married for over fifty years to the love of her life, and even after our father passed, that bond never left her.  Their marriage was a foundation- one built on commitment, loyalty and deep love-and it shaped the family she so proudly nurtured.

She was the mother of five children, and to her, being a mom wasn't just a role it was her calling.  She gave endlessly of herself, always helping, always showing up, always putting her children first.  No matter what we needed, she was there with open arms and an open heart.  She didn't just love her children- she loved the people they loved.  Welcoming every son-in-law, daughter-in-law and spouse of her grandchildren as part of her family.

Her world grew even bigger with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  They truly were her whole world.  Nothing brought her more joy than being surrounded by them-especially outdoors, watching them play, laugh and just be kids. Some of our most treasured memories are of her sitting outside, smiling as she watched life unfold around her.

New Year's Eve was especially meaningful to her.  The grandchildren would stay up, putting on little shows just for her, and she loved every moment of it.  Those nights were filled with laughter, love, and memories that will live on in our hearts forever.

She was caring, compassionate, and truly a sweetheart to everyone she met.  She had a way of making people feel seen, welcomed, and loved-whether you were family or a stranger.  Her kindness wasn't loud, but it was constant, and it touched so many lives.

Though our hearts are heavy today, we are also deeply grateful. Grateful for her life, her love, her sacrifices, and the legacy she leaves behind in every child, grandchild and great-grandchild who carries a piece of her with them.

She will be missed more than words can say, but her love will never leave us.  It lives on in our memories, our traditions, and the way we care for one another-just as she taught us. 

Visitation to honor Darlene will be held on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm at John L. Ziegenhein & Sons South County location, 4830 Lemay Ferry Road.  Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:00 am at same location.