Obituary of Neal Jack Kappeler, 103
Neal Jack Kappeler.
Neal Jack Kappeler
Dec. 5, 1922 — Jan. 23, 2026
– Neal “Jack” Kappeler of Bakersfield, California, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026 at the age of 103. Jack was born on December 5, 1922 in Alameda, California where he spent his childhood, graduated from Alameda High School in 1941, and met his late wife Mildred Furrer. He and Mildred were married on January 15, 1946. They were blessed with four children and remained dedicated to each other until Millie passed away on November 20, 2008.
Jack attended Marin College in 1942. When he was of age to enlist in the Naval Air Force he paused his education to serve his country during WWII. Pilot training took him to Washington, Texas, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey and California. Active duty commenced in 1943 where he served in Hawaii, Saipan, Japan, and upon The Lexington, Kentucky carrier. He was awarded the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, the American Area Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal during his service. Jack remained in the Naval Air Force Reserves until 1966 and retired as a Commander.
After being released from active duty in December of 1945 and marrying Millie, he and his father-in-law opened a small business in Lake Tahoe, California. A short time later, he enrolled at the University of California Berkeley where he graduated as a Geologist in 1952. Upon graduation he accepted a position with Tidewater Petroleum later known as Getty Oil Company. His job took his family to San Francisco, Paso Robles, Ojai, Bakersfield, Houston, Los Angeles, then back to Bakersfield where he retired from Chevron Oil Company in 1983.
His Retirement years were spent between his homes in Guerneville and Bakersfield, California. He enjoyed many years of family, friends, and neighbors.
He was survived by his four children and their families: William and Jacqueline Tarchala, Daniel and Kristine Yamashiro, Jon Kappeler, and Lance and Denise Renfrow. He was blessed with 6 grandchildren: Wendy, Wayne, Charles and Craig Crews, Brittany White and Brianna Robby. Also, 8 great grandchildren: Julia, Caroline, Anna, and Andrew Crews, Rowan, Temry and Sienna White, and Blair Robby. Jack was also survived by his faithful canine companion, Charlie.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to American Senior Living and its caregiving staff. Jack could not have been more loved. Also, thank you to the many dear friends who walked this wonderful 103 year old’s journey.
Services will be held at:
Bakersfield National Cemetery
30338 East Bear Mountain Boulevard
Arvin, CA 93203
Friday, February 20, 2026, at 1:15 PM
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to: Wounded Warriors or The Bakersfield SPCA.
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