James L. Kappel

He was born on July 29, 1940, in St. Louis, MO, the son of Louis and Helen (Deshler) Kappel.

James graduated from St. Louis University High School in 1958, earned his bachelor’s degree from St. Louis University in 1962, and attended juris doctor classes at University of Illinois, passing the bar exam in 1964. James went on to teach law in Indiana and later worked at the Attorney General’s office; a private practice in Springfield, IL; and lastly for the State of IL Dept. of Transportation. He was a member of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Knights of Columbus, and the Illinois Bar Association. James enjoyed travelling, playing bridge, the theatre, and college sports – especially basketball. He was a quiet, caring gentleman with a corny sense of humor that cared deeply for his family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

James is survived by his brothers, Louis C., Michael W., Stephen R. (Mary), and Thomas F. (Mary Fran) Kappel; cousins, Mary Ann Sommers, Mary Lee Miller, Jack Kappel, and Betty May Malon; nieces and nephews, Jacqueline (Lawrence) Waugh, Kathleen (Rossiter Noecker) Kappel, Stephen Jr. (Maria) Kappel, Frances (Tony) Petrites, and Christopher Kappel; and great-nieces and great-nephews, Emma, Samuel, and Alaina Kappel, and Eleanor Petrites.

Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center, prior to services.

Memorial Gathering and Mass of Christian Burial: Family will receive friends from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 E. Lawrence Ave., Springfield, followed by the Mass at 10:00 a.m., with Very Rev. Brian Alford, celebrant.

The family will host an inurnment at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at Peace Chapel at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Belleville, IL.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, or St. Louis University High School in St. Louis, MO.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.