Marsha Ruth Kapalka

Marsha Ruth (Blackwell) Kapalka passed away peacefully on July 25, 2025 in Fort Worth, Texas. Marsha was born Jan 25, 1948 in Great Bend Kansas to George Blackwell and Darlene (Ellings) Blackwell. Marsha grew up in Great Bend with her brother and graduated from Great Bend High School before moving to California. That was where she met Donald Kapalka whom she married on October 13th, 1967. As part of Donald’s service in the US Navy, they moved all over the USA, including Hawaii, before finally settling in Arlington, Texas after Donald was honorably discharged from the military. During this time, Marsha worked on base with uniformed services. In 1988 they were blessed with a child, Zachary Kapalka. She spent the next part of her life devoting her time to her son and all his pursuits. Marsha volunteered with Boy Scouts, PTA, in many of her son’s classrooms in Arlington ISD, and so much more. She was known as the “Avon lady” and for her specialized skills in crafting, crocheting, knitting, and sewing. Marsha is survived by her son, Zach Kapalka his wife, Anna, and 4 grandchildren, as well as 4 nieces. She is preceded in death by her husband of over 50 years, Donald, her brother Roger and her parents. A memorial service for Marsha will be held at New Life Deaf Fellowship in Fort Worth on August 22 at 11am. If desired, memorial donations in Marsha’s memory can be directed to Deaf Child Hope International at deafchildhope.org.