George John Kappel

George John Kappel, 81, of Kansas City, Missouri, died Monday, August 29, 2011 in Abilene, Texas. The son of Julianna Laschitz and George Paul Kappel, George was born on November 24, 1929. Following graduation from high school, he immediately began his military service in the U. S. Marine Corps, serving in the Korean Conflict as a radio operator. He worked for many years as a diesel mechanic for various companies during his career. He was a member of the Catholic Church. George was a loving father and grandfather, and a devoted husband, faithfully caring for his wife of 49 years, Barbara, thoughout her longtime illness. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Pruitt Kappel, in 2000; one son, Steven Craig Kappel in 2008; and his parents. George is survived by his son, Mark Kappel and wife Jana of Abilene; sister, Mary Worland of Kansas City, Missouri; and four grandchildren, Christian, Kara, Colin and Steven. Arrangements are being made by The Hamil Family Funeral Home, 6449 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Habitat for Humanity, 101 Fulwiler Road, Abilene, TX 79603, or the donor's favorite charity.