Beloved Jasper Matriarch Virginia Kapp Passes Away at 88

Beloved Jasper Matriarch Virginia Kapp Passes Away at 88

Virginia V. Kapp, aged 88, passed away on August 9, 2025, at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center in Jasper. Born on April 4, 1937, in Celestine, Indiana, she was the daughter of Anthony and Catherine (Humbert) Knies. Virginia had a full life, marked by her steadfast dedication to family and community.

She married Roger L. Zehr on February 16, 1957, who sadly passed away on January 7, 1998. Later, Virginia found love again, marrying James Kapp Sr. on September 11, 1999. She graduated from Dubois High School and furthered her education at VUJC, receiving an Associate’s Degree. Virginia’s career was as diverse as her interests; she worked as a homemaker and served as a teacher’s aide at St. Celestine School.

Legacy and Community Involvement

A devout member of St. Isidore Parish – St. Celestine Catholic Church in Celestine, Indiana, Virginia cherished her faith and the community. Her passion didn’t stop there; she was known for her love of traveling, reading, and cooking. Virginia also enjoyed solving crossword puzzles and treasured moments spent with her family and friends.

She leaves behind her husband, James Kapp Sr. of Jasper, as well as two daughters, Rhonda (Brad) Hopf from Jasper and Kristy Zehr of Deland, Florida. Her family extends even further with three stepchildren—James Jr. (Dana) Kapp of Evansville, Brenda (Dan) Duncan of Evansville, and Lori Kapp (Mike Brooks) of Florida—along with six grandchildren, five step-grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and an impressive 20 step-great-grandchildren. Virginia’s family was her pride, and her legacy lives on through them.

Virginia was preceded in death by one son, Scott Zehr, one sister, Clara Mae Knies, and seven brothers: Cletus, Earl, Eugene, Elmer, Romie Jr., and Gary Knies. Her deep family ties remind us all of the importance of connection in our lives.

Memorial and Funeral Arrangements

A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for August 22, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Celestine Catholic Church, with burial following in the church cemetery. Family and friends can pay their respects during visitation from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on the same day. Those who wish to honor Virginia’s memory can make memorial contributions to St. Isidore Catholic Church or in accordance with the family’s wishes.

In reflecting on Virginia’s life, it’s a poignant moment for the community, especially as trends indicate an evolving landscape in the funeral industry. As reported by homesteaderslife.com, the funeral profession is undergoing significant changes driven by demographic shifts and technology. In 2025, one in five Americans will be over the age of 65, increasing demand for end-of-life services, making these moments even more valuable as families navigate their losses.

Virginia’s passing is not only a loss for her family but also serves as a reminder of the vital role that community and connection play during life’s toughest times. As families prepare to honor their loved ones, an understanding of modern trends in memorial services may ease some of the burdens they encounter.