Thomas Richard Kapsner
Oct. 20, 1950-June 9, 2021
Duluth, Minnesota
Thomas Richard Kapsner kissed the world goodbye June 9. And surely gave a bear hug on the way out too.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 1-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 19 at the Park Point Beach House, Duluth.
Kapsner was born Oct. 20, 1950 to Marcella (Puerringer) and Leander Kapsner at St. Cloud Hospital. He grew up in St. Joseph in a devoutly Catholic family, graduating from St. Cloud Cathedral and St. John’s University. He met Mary Braun in high school and they married in an idyllic chapel ceremony on Lake Sagatagan. They lived on a rustic Richmond farmstead, welcoming first child Jacob, then moved to Duluth and welcomed daughter McKenzie. For 15 years, they ran a group home for adults with disabilities. Tom worked and lived in northern Minnesota until his death.
One constant in his life was a deep love and dedication to his family. He was generous with time and money, from high stakes Easter egg hunts to weekends with “Papa,” and could always be counted on to be there, and bring the fun. The annual golf trip to Vegas with Zimmer, Greg and friends was no exception. “TK” was a cherished member of more than one family and his vast network of friends reflected his kindness and generosity of spirit.
Kapsner was an adept athlete in his prime and a lifelong sports fan who relished cabin getaways to Voyager Village, Wisconsin to golf, split wood and catch up. He loved to host, cook and celebrate, especially in the great outdoors. A natural salesman who worked and played hard, Kapsner’s career included 20 years at RMS, where he earned numerous top salesperson awards and many more “Ranger” friendships. He believed everyone mattered, no matter their job title, and enjoyed sharing colorful stories about life and the people he encountered.
A resilient man, he battled Lyme’s and other ailments in the past decade. Yet Kapsner’s 2020 cancer diagnosis presented an even bigger challenge. Intensive treatment and recovery appeared to be working, then he died unexpectedly at home. We’re grateful for him in so many ways. He is deeply missed and will be lovingly remembered by the many people he touched in life.
Survivors include the following: his former wife Mary Braun and children Jake (Carla) and McKenzie (Francois) Kapsner; grandchildren Sophia, Anna, Gabe, William, Beau; siblings Sandra, Greg, Rose Mary; extended family and many friends.
Kapsner was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorials are preferred to Amberwing Center for Youth & Family Wellbeing or a charity of your choice. www.forevermissed.com/thomas-richard-kapsner/
