Larry Capel

Larry Capel, 83, of Willoughby, formerly of Mentor, died January 17, 2025 at Hillcrest Hospital. He was born October 3, 1941 in Kirtland. Larry attended The Columbus College of Art and Design and worked as a commercial artist before being drafted into the Army. After returning from his service in Korea he applied his artistic talent and strong work ethic to the drywall industry, where his attention to detail and dedication to perfection made him a master of his craft. Larry ran his own business, Capel Construction, and also worked for Hamann Construction until his retirement, always giving his best in every job he took on throughout his career. Larry faced the final two decades of his life, marked by tough health battles, with the same fierce determination that earned him two championships with the Golden Gloves boxing organization in his youth. That same drive carried him through his time as a proud Army veteran, where he served his country with honor. His sense of duty was only surpassed by his deep devotion to his family. His family was the cornerstone of his life, bringing him his greatest joy. He cherished his roles as a husband, father, brother, and grandfather, always taking pride in the accomplishments and happiness of his loved ones. Larry was a passionate fisherman who treasured his trips to Canada’s Georgian Bay, where he spent countless hours on the water with his wife, sons, father, and many friends. These moments, along with his constant support at his sons', grandchildren's, nieces', and nephews' athletic events, were some of the happiest times in his life. Larry was truly his family’s biggest fan and always ready to support them. Whether fishing or cheering from the stands his presence brought joy and encouragement to everyone around him. Larry was a man who knew everyone and was always ready with a smile, a story and a kind word. His playful spirit and sense of humor lit up every room he entered. No matter the situation, Larry had a way of making people feel welcome, respected and loved. Survivors include his wife, Nancy Capel; sons, Jim (Kristin) Capel and Nick (Mandy) Capel; cherished grandchildren, Paige, Laine, Connor, Brady, and Milana; his brother, Jack D. Capel; and many nieces, nephews and other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack A. and Amy Capel, sister-in-law, Dolores Capel, and sister-in-law, Sandy Capel. The family will receive friends to celebrate Larry’s life from 4-7 p.m. Friday, January 24, 2025 at the Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 8466 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060. A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, January 25, 2025 at the funeral home. Interment will be in Mentor Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, donate online at www.stjude.org. Please offer condolences at www.brunners.com.

Larry Capel

October 3, 1941 - January 17, 2025