Obituary of James Cappelmann

Jim passed away peacefully at home with his family and Hospice at his side on September 11th. He was diagnosed with cancer in early 2013 and faced the challenge as he had lived his life. His independence, dignity and the ability to overcome obstacles was what he was made of. Jim was of the third generation of his family in Santa Cruz. Jim's longtime friend, Mike contributed these words to the family, "When Jim was younger he enjoyed playing quarterback for the Santa Cruz City Football League, he had an arm like a sling shot. Jim grew up working on cars. He loved helping people get their cars back on the road. When he completed the repair it seemed as though he was often happier than the car owners themselves. When thanked for his good deed he would sincerely reply, "Glad I could help". Jim never wanted to take credit. He will be missed by more people that he would ever realize". Jim started working on cars as a teenager and later became a Journeyman Technician specializing in Nissans. He often took afternoon walks in the neighborhood and when he saw someone trying to get their car started he took the opportunity to ask if they needed help and make a new friend. Jim had the garage door open almost every day and could be seen working on projects. After the garage door was closed for several days, the neighbors knew that his health was declining. He was an avid scuba diver when he was younger and loved spear fishing in Santa Cruz and Monterey County as well taking any opportunity to dive for abalone on the northern coast. He was also a recreational ocean fisherman that enjoyed taking his family and friends for a day of fishing on his boat. Jim is preceded in death by his Father and Mother; Elmer and Lola Cappelmann, his Sisters; Lola Truly, Dorothy Pennington, Marilyn Barker; his Brother Steve Cappelmann. Jim is survived by his Wife, Nancy Cappelmann; his Son, Curtis Cappelmann; his Sister, Thelma Brown and numerous nieces and nephews Jim's ashes will be scattered at sea at a later date. A celebration of life will be held at the Cappelmann home. Please contact Nancy or Thelma for details. Our family would like to thank all of our friends and Hospice of Santa Cruz for their support. In lieu of flowers, please offer contributions to Hospice of Santa Cruz, 940 Disc Dr. Scotts Valley CA 95066 (831) 430-3000.