Died Tuesday, September 2, 2025 at CHI Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha.
Jeffrey A Kappeler was born June 18, 1950, to Kenneth "Dale" and Bette (Freeman) Kappeler. He grew up on a farm south of Arlington. Started school at a country school then transferred to Arlington High where he graduated. He attended Midland Lutheran College and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and taught for several years.
From an early age Jeff had an interest in history. He did genealogy and traced his family back to William Brewster who came to America on the Mayflower. His interest then has led to his career of museum curator at John Brown's Cave in Nebraska City and the Dodge County Historical Society/May Museum in Fremont. He has also taught Elderhostel sessions through Midland Lutheran College and has had independent research projects on a continuing basis to gain a better understanding of 19th century life in Nebraska.
He is survived by his sister Linda (Garry) Goracke of Fremont, nieces Tami (Glenn) Kietzmann of Carroll, Keri Goracke of Elkhorn and Kelle Goracke (Kris Schroeder) of Ankeny, Iowa. Great-niece Ashley Tyler of Elgin and great-nephew Colby Kuhr of Fremont. Great-great niece and nephew Harlie and Benton Tyler of Elgin.
He was preceded in death by his parents, step-mother Donna Skoog Kappeler and niece Sherrill Goracke.
Gravesides services will be 11:00am, Thursday, October 9, 2025 at Memorial Cemetery in Fremont. Following the graveside please join the family at Nye Legacy for a time to visit and light refreshments.
Online guestbook at www.Ludvigsenmortuary.com
Condolences(5)
Jayne Stranghoener
Arlington, NE Monday, September 15, 2025 So sorry to hear about Jeff. I have a great many wonderful memories going way back to first grade when he started kindergarten at Lone Tree School. We have been friends for many years and he will be missed.Sandy Newkirk / Amazing Grace Antiques
Amana, IA Sunday, September 14, 2025 Hannah and I offer our condolences to you.Jeff visited the store many times and we shared an interest in primitive antiques and a passion to not let those things be forgotten.
I was so pleased when he recovered from COVID and was able to travel and visit here in the Amanas. The last time I saw him he was feeling much stronger and we had great visits. May God hold you in the palm of His hands and your memories bring you comfort.
Sandy Newkirk
Char Manes/Maria Pierce
Kansas City, MO Sunday, September 14, 2025 May you rest, Jeff knowing how many lives you have touched. Children’s Corner was fortunate to have you on staff as our very own Mr. Roger’s. The many hours our children spent with you has reverberated into their lives in positive ways. Thank you. Be at PeaceChar and Maria
Nancy and Alex Buck
Krauchthal, Thursday, September 11, 2025 Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Jeff’s family. We enjoyed his visits to Switzerland which always included some antique hunting and interesting chats about history peppered with humor. His insights, emails, knowledge and visits will be sorely missed.Renate Schulte
Amana, IA Saturday, September 6, 2025 My sincere sympathies to all of Jeff's Family upon your great loss of a wonderful friend. Bud and I so enjoyed his visits to Amana, antiquing, sharing Amana history and dinners. Jeff's wit, smile and energy will be greatly missed. May he rest in peace