William was born in Chicago, IL, July 25, 1940 the son of Anthony and Isabel McKeand Kapella who preceded him in death. He had one sister, Barbara Startz, also deceased. He is survived by his wife of 58 years Mary Ann Baughman Kapella and two children, Cheryl (Ron) Raugh of Delray Beach, FL and son David W. Kapella of Raleigh, NC.
He is also survived by nieces Debbie Jerrick and children, Nikki, Brandon and Tyler; niece Kim Startz and her son Devin Bethea. Also surviving are three step grandchildren and six great grandchildren.
William grew up in Lockport, IL where he graduated from Lockport Township High School in 1957. He received his BS degree in Chemical Engineering from Purdue University and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Northern Illinois University. His career with Union Carbide started with the tech center in Charleston, WV later transferring to Jacksonville, FL, then coming to NC to the RTP. The agricultural division was purchased by Rhone-Poulenc, a French company. He spent time on assignment in Lyon, France before returning to UCAR Emulsion Systems in Cary, NC. William retired from Union Carbide Corporation with 27 years of service. He was also a talented musician playing saxophone and clarinet with several local bands including Casablanca Orchestra, Leon Jordan’s Continentals, and the Moonlighters
A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to Purdue University Band Funds. Purdue University Foundation, 403 Westwood SE, West Lafayette, IN 47907.
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