Jerome "Jerry" Francis Kapolka, age 81, of Clinton Township, Michigan, was born December 31, 1944, in Detroit, Michigan, to parents August and Evelyn Kapolka. Jerry passed away on October 3, 2026, surrounded by family. He will be remembered with deep respect and lasting gratitude for a life marked by devotion to family, steadfast faith, and a quiet wisdom that guided those who knew him.
Jerry attended Lincoln High School in Warren, Michigan. From early on, he carried himself with the kind of steady determination that would define his years ahead—hard-working in all he took on, kind-hearted in the way he treated others, and selfless in the countless everyday ways he showed up for the people he loved.
He served in the United States Army, where his discipline and skill earned him several service medals, including his expert rifle medal, C.I.B., and the Bronze Star for Valor. During his time in the service, Jerry also worked as a cook—an experience that helped shape his future path as an executive chef. Whether in uniform or in the kitchen, he approached his work with care, pride, and a sense of responsibility that never sought attention, yet always made a difference.
Jerry married the love of his life, Christine, and together they shared 58 years of marriage. He was a devoted father to three children: Jennifer (David) Kemp, Jerome (Kristina) Kapolka Jr., and Julie (Robert) Harris. He was a cherished grandfather to Annaliese Kemp, Katryna Kemp, Ashley (Chuck) Richardson, Makenzie (Nick) Robinson, and David Kapolka, and a proud great-grandfather to Kenny and Carter Robinson. He was also a dear brother-in-law to Robert (Jean) Dismuke, Deborah (Patrick) Winninger, Laura Kapolka, and Mary Dismuke. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, August Kapolka, Dennis Kapolka, and Thomas Kapolka; and his brother-in-law, Dave Dismuke.
Those closest to Jerry knew that his love was expressed not only in words, but in the steady presence of a man who could be counted on. He loved to cook and became well known for his famous mac and cheese and his chicken and dumpling soup—meals that carried comfort, tradition, and the warmth of home. He had a gift for tinkering and could fix almost anything, a reflection of both his practical know-how and his patient, determined spirit. He enjoyed working in the yard, going fishing, and spending time at the shooting range.
Jerry also carried a gentle humor that made family gatherings brighter. He liked to joke around with his grandchildren and tease them from time to time, offering laughter as one of his many quiet gifts. He loved his dogs, especially his puppy Teddy. Whenever he could, he treasured time on his pontoon boat and at the family lake house—simple moments that spoke to his adventurous heart and his deep understanding of what mattered most: family, togetherness, and time well spent.
Family will receive friends on Friday, October 9, 2026, from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm, with a service at 6:00 pm, at Kaul Funeral Home 28433 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores, Michigan 48081.
Jerry will be laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Road, Holly.
Memorial donations in memory of Jerry are suggested to Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Jerry’s legacy lives on in the family he so dearly loved, in the lessons learned by watching his steady example, and in the memories—faithful, hardworking, and warmly human—that will continue to be shared for years to come.
