Thomas A. Cappel

Thomas A. “Tommy” Cappel, 66, was a one-of-a-kind soul whose wonderful sense of humor, gentle spirit, and love of life brought joy to everyone who knew him.

Tommy dedicated 38 years to BAWAC, where he was a valued member of the community. His years there were a testament to the importance of having a place to belong, meaningful work to do, and people with whom to share life’s everyday moments.

A devoted Cincinnati Reds and Bengals fan, Tommy's passion for sports went far beyond simply watching games. He could recite Reds player statistics with remarkable accuracy and seemed to have a baseball encyclopedia in his mind. His extensive baseball card collection was one of his greatest treasures. His knowledge and enthusiasm for sports was truly contagious and something he loved to share. All who loved him know that another thing Tommy loved (but didn't love to share) were his favorite cheeseburgers, candy bars, and sodas. 

Tommy was a natural jokester who loved to make people laugh. He had a playful spirit and a wonderful sense of humor, and Halloween was one of his favorite times of the year. He delighted in putting masks on for unsuspecting family and friends to get a good laugh out of a well-timed scare. For Tommy, life was meant to be enjoyed, laughter was meant to be shared, and there was always room for one more joke.

While Tommy brought plenty of laughter into the lives of those around him, his greatest gift may have been the lessons he taught simply by being himself. Living with special needs never defined who Tommy was or the impact he would have on others. He showed his family that life did not always have to move at full speed. Tommy reminded others to find joy in the little things. He had a gentle soul and a remarkable way of reminding those around him what really matters. He may not have measured life by the same standards as everyone else, but he understood that happiness can be found in the people we share our days with, and that laughter brings us together.

Tommy’s family is deeply grateful to the caregivers who were part of his life over the years. Their patience, kindness, compassion, and dedication made a meaningful difference in Tommy’s life and in the lives of those who loved him. Their care helped Tommy enjoy life to the fullest, and we will always remember their kindness with gratitude.

Tommy is survived by his sisters, Carol Laws and Kathleen Sketch (Richard) and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Kathryn Cappel, his brother James Cappel, and his sister Joan Ihrig.

 A visitation will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, from 11:00 AM to the hour of the Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 PM, at Sts. Boniface and James Parish, 304 Oak Street, Ludlow, KY 41016.

Entombment will be at St. John's Cemetery, Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017.

Memorials are suggested to Proud Works (Formerly BAWAC) 7970 Kentucky Dr., Florence, KY 41042.