James A. Kappler

James A. (Jim) Kappler, 89, of Evansville, peacefully passed away on March 11, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 5, 1936, in Evansville to the late Nellie (Masters) and Melvin Kappler, Jim married Joan A. Dixon in February 1956. The couple shared 65 wonderful years together before Joan’s death in December 2021.

Jim graduated from Bosse High School in 1954, where he played basketball and baseball, and went on to attend Butler University, continuing his basketball career under Coach Tony Hinkle. He began his professional life in 1957 as a Terminal Plant Clerk with Gulf Oil, advancing through several roles until 1970. He remained in the oil industry with New Kro Oil, Hahn Oil, and Wannemuehler Oil, retiring in 2000.

A lifelong athlete, Jim played in city basketball and softball leagues. In 1970, his “J’s Tavern” softball team won the ASA Semi-State Tournament, and he continued playing until 2014, taking the field for the last time at age 78 alongside his sons, son-in-law, and grandsons. He was a devoted University of Evansville fan and an active member of the Oilmen’s Organization, Central Turners, Friends of Bosse Field, the Hot Stove League, Bosse Booster Club, Quarterback Club, and served as an administrator for East Little League. He was also part of the University of Evansville Brew Crew, where he helped provide food for fans at home football games. For many years, he and Joan gathered every Friday evening with a close group of friends known as the FNCC. Among his friends, he was affectionately known as “The Bear.”

Jim is survived by his children, Jim Kappler (Karla), Jeff Kappler (Beth), Karen Pleiss (Scott), Brian Kappler (Donna), and Dan Kappler (Andrea); his grandchildren, David Kappler (Ashley), Kerri Blanford (Alex), Lisa Kappler, Ryan Kappler (Courtney), Megan Kappler, Matthew Pleiss (Ashley Graper), Jennifer Pleiss, Amy Draeger (Jordan), Emily Phelps (Zach), Andrea Kerner (T.J.), Robby Ort (Brittany), Laura Ivory (Jake), and Eric Kappler; and 17 great-grandchildren. As an only child, he took great pride in the large, loving family he and Joan built together.