Joseph Robert Kapacziewski

It is with a heavy heart we share the news that Joseph “Kap” Kapacziewski passed away on Sunday, January 22, 2023, at the age of 40 in Dripping Springs, Texas. He is survived by his beloved wife, Kimberly; his sons, Wyatt and Cody; his brother, Randy Kapacziewski; his sister, Erin Bourgoin; his mother, Lori Briglia; his grandparents, George and Alice Churchill and Thomas and Marge Haggarty. Joe was preceded in death by his father, William Kapacziewski, Jr.

Joe will be remembered as much for his high energy, unbelievable drive, and contagious smile as for his warrior spirit. Joe was a loving husband, father, and accomplished hunter. For those who had the honor of knowing him, an irreplaceable friend and mentor. He loved to work out and enjoyed time with his beloved dog, Brett.

Joe grew up in Bristol, Connecticut, and joined the United States Army in 2001. Joe served in the Army with distinction for over 15 years in 3rd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Ranger Special Troops Battalion, and Regimental Headquarters Company.

After Joe was severely wounded in an ambush in Northern Iraq in 2005, he persevered through a difficult and lengthy recovery and overcame near-impossible odds to become the first Ranger to return to combat with a prosthetic leg. Joe continued to lead as a Squad Leader and Platoon Sergeant, ultimately deploying a total of 11 times in support of the Global War on Terrorism.

Joe’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with “V” device, 2 Bronze Star Medals, 3 Purple Hearts, Meritorious Service Medal, 2 Army Commendation Medals with “V” device, 6 Army Achievement Medals, Afghanistan Service Medal, Iraqi Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal (with Arrowhead), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Development Ribbon (with numeral 3), Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, the Army Good Conduct Medal (3rd Award), Ranger Tab, Senior Parachutist Badge (with Bronze Combat Jump Star), Expert Infantryman’s Badge, and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge.

After retiring from the Army, Joe continued to serve his country and lead his brothers in arms up until the time of his passing.

Joe will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery and a private service will be held at that time.

In lieu of flowers, a fund has been set up to support the Kapacziewski family during this difficult time through the Valor Mission Project. Donations can be made at ValorMissionProject.org Checks can be made payable to Valor Mission Project, INC. and mailed to 5160 Tennyson Parkway, Suite 1000, Plano, TX, 75024. Please note “Joe Kap” on the donation.