William Fredrick "Cappy" Caplinger, Sr., 83, of Everton, MO, passed away May 19, 2021, in his home.

Cappy was born January 15, 1938, in Chicago, IL, to Milford Henry and Ida Beatrice (Humberd) Caplinger. He spent his early ages in the Gary, Indiana area. In 1955, he join the Navy and served 2 terms. He was an original plank owner on the USS Forrestal and served in Primary Flight, and spent some time on the Blimp Squad throughout his Navy career.

Cappy would eventually meet Jeanette Bell, and the two were married on September 18, 1969, in Portage, IN. Their union was blessed with 6 children, in addition to his son. The Caplingers made their home in Lincoln, Illinois, running Koala Cleaning Service, before moving to Springfield, Missouri, in 1986.

While in Springfield, Cappy began employment as a window washer with Z-Tech, and remained with the company until his retirement in 2002. He fondly spoke about those years and all of the friends and customers that he gained along the way.

Cappy had a deep awe and love for creation, which he attributed to his Heavenly Father, Jehovah God. On April 17, 1971, he symbolized his dedication to Jehovah and was baptized as one of Jehovah's Witnesses. He often spoke of the hope he had in reuniting with his beloved wife in the upcoming resurrection on a paradise earth. He loved to be outside, would strike up a conversation with any stranger, and was generous in handing out a joke or two to anyone he met. He loved to whistle his tunes, was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, and enjoyed sharing stories of his life.

Survivors include his 7 children, Kevin Durham of Taylorville, IL, William "Bill" (Chandra) Caplinger of Springfield, MO, Darian (Carolyn) Caplinger of Springfield, MO, Kristian (Cara) Caplinger of Springfield, MO, Jeanelle (Michael) Bloomquist, of Brule, NE, Michelle J'Ne' (Jared) Clapper of Everton, MO, and Douglas (Anita) Caplinger, of Springfield, MO; his sister Jean (Caplinger) Warren of Portage, Indiana; 17 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren; and several nephews and nieces.

Cappy was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 49 years, Jeanette Caplinger; his brothers, Milford Caplinger, Jr, John Caplinger, and Robert Caplinger; a sister, Betty-Lou Caplinger; a grandson, Kody Caplinger; and a great-grandson, Lucas Caplinger.

Online condolences may be sent to midwestfuneralservices.com

Memorial services will be conducted via virtual meeting on June 19, 2021 at 1;00PM CST. Please contact local family or the Aurora (Missouri) Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses for meeting details.

Interment of the cremains will be held at a later date in Lincoln, IL.