Ret. MSG. Guenter K.P. Kappelmann

Guenter Kappelmann (Opa, KP), 90, passed away January 4, 2026. He was born on June 27, 1935, in Otterndorf, Germany to Walter and Maria Kappelmann. In 1958, with courage and hope for a new life, he immigrated to the United States. Shortly after arriving, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served faithfully from July 1958 to July 1981, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant.

While stationed in Germany, Guenter met the love of his life, Maria (Oma). The two married in Baumholder, Germany and began their journey together, moving to the United States in 1963. Their partnership became the steady center of a life filled with movement, service, and devotion. Married for 63 years, Opa and Oma built their home and hearts around family, spending most of their marriage in Fountain, Colorado.

After retiring from the Army, Guenter continued his commitment to service by working as a Civil Servant at Building 8000 on Fort Carson. His work ethic, reliability, and quiet strength were known to all who served and worked alongside him.

As a military family, the Kappelmanns moved often, following Opa’s career across states, countries, and duty stations. His military career included three tours to Vietnam, of which he was immensely proud. Through every transition, Opa and Oma created a warm, loving home for their three children, teaching them resilience, loyalty, and the importance of staying connected no matter where life led.

Opa enjoyed working in his workshop, fishing, crossword puzzles, the Broncos, and hanging out with his family. He was predeceased by his parents and four siblings. He is survived by his loving wife Maria (Oma), three children Thomas (Linda), Barbara, Angela (Scott); grandchildren Matthew (Janine), Samantha (Kyle), Nicolas, Breanna (Tyler); great-granddaughters Kylee, Brooke, Thea, Sloane, Logan, and Kinsley.

A private family ceremony with full military honors will be held at Pikes Peak National Cemetery in March. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region or Faith Lutheran Church (315 Security Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80911).