Wayne Gordon Kappler

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Wayne Gordon Kappler on Thursday, November 13th, 2025, at the age of 77, in Puslinch, Ontario. Wayne will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, a skilled craftsman, and a man whose generosity and spirit touched countless lives.

Wayne was predeceased by his loving parents, Gordon and Mildred Kappler (nee Boomer). He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lynda Kappler (née Ainslie); his son, Richard Kappler; his sister, Barbara Ann Thomson (nee Kappler); cherished family friend Barb Griffinham; and his loyal canine partner-in-crime, Harley. Wayne was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren and one great-grandchild, and a beloved uncle to 11 nieces and nephews.

Born and raised in Galt (Cambridge), Ontario, Wayne attended Lincoln Avenue Public School, Manchester Public School, and Galt Collegiate Institute (GCI). As a boy, he embraced community life, participating in Boy Scouts of Canada and playing baseball for the Galt Chiefs. Even during his school years, Wayne was already nurturing his work ethic and craftsmanship by helping in the family business, G. Kappler General Contracting and Masonry.

After graduating from GCI, Wayne pursued his natural talent for working with his hands, completing training as an auto body repair technician. He began his career at Eagle Auto Body in Preston, restoring and repairing antique cars. Work that quickly became both his livelihood and passion.

In 1969, Wayne married the love of his life, Lynda, and together they welcomed their son Richard in 1970. Wayne’s skill and dedication led him to Galt Chrysler Dodge, where he served as the Auto Body Shop Manager at one of Galt’s largest dealerships. His leadership and precision earned him deep respect from colleagues and customers alike.

In January 1982, Wayne felt called to serve his community in a new way. While continuing his role at the dealership, he began working part-time as a Correctional Officer at the Waterloo Detention Centre. A few years later, he transitioned fully into corrections, dedicating over 30 years to serving the Province of Ontario. Even throughout this demanding career, Wayne never stepped away from his workshop—he continued to restore antique cars, build dune buggies, and take on the projects no one else dared to attempt.

After retiring from corrections in 2011, Wayne embraced life on the road, traveling across Canada with Linda in their motorhome. From coast to coast to coast, he made new friends, shared stories, and bonded with fellow lovers of classic cars and life in general. Eventually, Wayne and Lynda settled in the welcoming community of the Mini Lakes Condominium Community, where Wayne quickly became a familiar and beloved figure. Driving his blue truck with the “marshmallow cap,” he was always ready to lend a hand—landscaping, clearing snow, fixing whatever needed fixing, and brightening the day of anyone he met.

Wayne was known for his hard outer shell, quick wit, and his ability to “tell it like it is,” yet those who knew him best recognized the tremendous heart beneath it. He was someone who showed love through action—through work, through loyalty, and through devotion to the people who mattered most. His wife, son, grandchildren, and entire family were the center of his world, and he cherished every moment spent with them.

A self-made man of talent, grit, and character, Wayne will be remembered as a lifelong worker, an honest friend, a craftsman of remarkable skill, and a truly good human being. His kindness, humour, and unmistakable devilish grin will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His impact will be felt for years to come, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those he loved.

Arrangements entrusted to Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home - Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St, Guelph. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025 at the Hart Chapel from 1:00 - 4:00 pm with words of remembrance at 2:00 pm.

As expressions of sympathy, flowers are welcomed and will be received at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Funeral Home. Alternatively, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario or the Alzheimer's Society of Ontario would be greatly

appreciated by the family.