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Alfred Capelli Obituary
1949 - 2017
Alfred John "A. J." Capelli M.D., 68, of Kenosha, wants everyone to know he "went kicking and screaming into the yonder," on Sunday, Dec. 31, 2017, at Froedtert South-Kenosha Hospital Campus.
Born in Kenosha on Sept. 3, 1949, he was the son of the late Alfred J. and Josephine (Ventura) Capelli.
On Sept. 3, 1977, John married Julie Brummel at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church.
Dr. A. J. Capelli established his primary care practice with his wife, Julie, 36 years ago and remained in his hometown, caring for those he loved the most; his family, friends and the people of Kenosha. His practice grew to be one of the largest in Kenosha, attracting other physicians and specialists to serve Kenosha's population.
A proven leader and visionary, he expanded his original "mom and pop" practice until it become one of 168 sites within the Aurora Health Care network. Under his leadership, Dr. Capelli along with many other physicians, built Aurora's first outpatient clinics in Kenosha, followed by a surgery center, and then, in 1998, the opening of Aurora's Kenosha hospital. Throughout his years with Aurora, he held numerous leadership roles, not only as part as part of the medical staff, but also as its medical director, and as a Board Member of the Aurora Medical Group, representing more than 1,600 physicians. He was routinely involved in improving patient care, embracing improved information technology, patient safety, along with pioneering palliative and hospice care.
Dr. Capelli received a B.S. degree in biology/chemistry from Marquette University, and his M.D. degrees from the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara, and the Medical College of Wisconsin. Ever the scholar, at the age of fifty, he returned to school for a Master's Degree in Health Care Management, from Harvard University's School of Public Health.
Dr. Capelli was proud to serve the community through his roles with the Kenosha Community Health Clinic, United Way, Spanish Center, Shalom Center, Mahone Foundation, along with many other philanthropic organizations. Perhaps none was more satisfying than his role as the medical director of Aurora Hospice.
Dr. Capelli's life was full of meaning and purpose. He chose to complete his residency in Los Angeles to experience urgent medical care in an urban emergency room. He continued to give back to the medical community, passing on to the next generation of doctors by mentoring countless medical students. For decades, he would make rounds on his Harley motorcycle, on occasion wearing his favorite serape, bringing compassion and comfort to his vast patient base, a base that included everyone from community leaders to immigrants.
The greatest passions in his life were medicine, philanthropy, and family. Some referred to him as their son; others were proud to call him brother, uncle, or simply "friend". More personally he was known as "Doc", "Al", "Juan", "A.J", or "Pappa Pelli". No matter the name, or the home he walked into, he left a lasting impression, and a legacy of compassion that touched so many people's lives.
Dr. Capelli is survived by his wife, Julie; his children, Vincent (Breanne) Capelli, Cara (Eric) Walker, Peter Alfred John Capelli, and his beloved grandson Matthew Steven Capelli; his brother and sisters Dr. Paul A. Capelli (Mary, deceased), Pauline (G. Thomas) McTernan, and Carole (Raymond, M.D.) Knight; brother-in-law, Jeffrey (Debbie) Brummel; sister-in-law, Lori Waters, and his extended family from Guadalajara, Mexico, the Zaragoza family. He will be missed by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, his aunt, patients, and countless friends.
The Capelli family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for the compassionate care provided by the Froedtert South - Kenosha Medical Center staff.
Funeral services honoring Dr. Capelli will be held on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2018. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. at St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church, 1300 73rd St., Kenosha. Dr. Capelli will be laid to rest privately with his immediate family at a later date. Relatives, patients, and friends are invited to meet with the family on Friday, Jan. 5, 2018 from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the funeral home, and attend Mass to celebrate his life on Saturday morning.
Dr. Capelli's family would be honored to have memorial remembrances sent to St. Joseph Catholic Academy, 7207 14th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53143, Shalom Center, 4314 39th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53144, Women's and Children's Horizons 2525 63rd Street, Kenosha, WI 53143 or any charity of your choice.
Piasecki-Althaus Funeral Home & Cremation Services
3720 39th Avenue
Kenosha, Wisconsin 53144
262-658-4101
Online Condolences at www.piasecki-althaus.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Alfred Capelli
Mia Swatkowski
December 28, 2024
Still miss him!
Sean Golden
March 18, 2018
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Capelli. I was just writing him to let him know where I matched, and to thank him for all of his teaching. He was one of the best teachers that I had in medical school. I will also remember my time with him in the Kenosha clinic. He was so generous, both with his students and his patients. My thoughts are with his family.
Patrick Lee
February 18, 2018
I was saddened to hear about the passing of Dr. Capelli. As a student, he was one of the best teachers I had. I looked forward to clinic days with Dr. Capelli. Although it made his days longer, he entrusted us to see his patients and always had a smile on his face. Every patient was a teaching point for us to consider when we started practicing after graduation. Working with Dr. Capelli was the first time I can say that as a medical student I knew what it was like to practice clinical medicine. I appreciate everything he taught me. A great mentor and teacher gone too soon.
Sandy Dabbs-Jeffers
February 8, 2018
We all lost not only the most caring, loving Dr. who really cared and remembered all. Talk about me being the emotional one! Thoughts, prayers and love to Julie and family. Thank you for sharing Dr. John with so many of us. The Dabbs Family
Patty Stell Hawkins
January 28, 2018
I am so very sorry to hear this news. I remember him with the kindest heart. A legend lost too soon. I remember his love for Julie. As I have been away from Kenosha for many years, this man made an impression on me. In reading his accomplishments and the impact he had, he will be missed. My deepest sympathy to his family.
Mary Robinson
January 18, 2018
I'm so sorry to hear of AJ's passing. Julie you and your whole family have my deepest sympathy. You know AJ was one of my favorite people for many reasons. His love for family, his patients, and all of humanity was something I was privileged to witness. Prayers for your whole family.
January 16, 2018
Dr. Capelli was gifted with a healing nature for his patients. My husband I loved to be around him at his office. He was great at his job of doctoring. We will surely miss this great man.
Rob and Tina Bernacchi
January 13, 2018
We're so sorry for your loss.
The Hartles
January 8, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person and awesome physician. We will miss you dearly.
Loralie Schultz
January 7, 2018
My deepest sympathy goes to the family of AJ. He was a exceptional person! I loved him so much and I am so glad I had the pleasure of one of God's Children in my life!!! I worked
With him and also he was my doctor when my insurance permitted it. He was a wonderful friend and person and I always remember how he was so touched by myself telling him happy Father's Day I remember the look on his face he just glowed and thanked me. He was a very
Fun loving spirit!!! I can't wait til the day I see you again!!!! God is our rock!!!! I remember also AJ making sure of all the elementary schools in kenosha having a aed machine after the Loss of one of our very prominent doctors child. That's the person AJ was very loving caring passionate and always going that extra mile. I love you my friend and will see you one day. May you watch over all of us for you are a beautiful angels well deserved of your beautiful wings!!!! God bless your family
Carl R
January 6, 2018
Thank you for being there
Tina Cambio
January 6, 2018
Dr. John Capelli was not only an exceptional doctor, he was family. He was the most caring person and doctor. He took care of me and my kids when we were in town - came across the street from my parents house at anytime of the day or night and was always willing to help. He took the time to make sure we all were taken care of and he always ended it with "you are family". I am so sad that he has passed away. He will be missed and will always be loved. My heart goes out to his family. I know he will be watching over everyone as a guardian angel - just like a doctor does. He will still take care of everyone - but from above. Love and hugs ... rest in peace.
John Robinson
January 6, 2018
Al was my friend and classmate at Harvard. He made the classes enjoyable. He was a giant of man in spirit and kindness, and a superb physician too. My heart goes out to Julie and his kids.
Dick Hollister
January 6, 2018
A true character who added much- both inside and outside the classroom - to our Cohort's experience at HSPH. He was truly unique, and I am grateful to have known him
Ron Eavey
January 6, 2018
Dear Al.
No one but you could have written the opening to your obituary. You are and always will be one of a kind.
Your style is imprinted indelibly into the positive places in our hearts because you helped to grow those positive spots with your larger-than-life persona. You brought cheese and the Harley brand to Boston for our class as you organIzed us for Celtics games and restaurants. You entertained us with your stories about how you first accosted the 18 year old lovely and innocent Julie with a marriage proposal as a grungy serape wearing medical student.
You and she and the kids graciously entertained Sheila and me in Kenosha. We could feel your pride for your family and your paractice and your town.
We cannot forget you as an absolutely unique and wonderful human.
Thank you, Al, for adding so much to our lives!
Katrina Marshall
January 6, 2018
Deepest condolences to Cara and the rest of the Capelli family. John was my physician for many years he was not only a great provider to me but to my clients as well he will be greatly missed.
Richard nicolo
January 6, 2018
Doctor capelli was my doctor for 30 years, he will be missed by kenosha. He always made his patients feel at home, very understanding for everyones needs. Made you laugh, you knew when he wasn't at the office. Rest in peace we will all meet you again, amen.
Erica
January 6, 2018
I've worked as a nurse and have known AJ when he did rounds in our nursing home - he was always very caring and was one of the last Drs who always came in to assess his residents - and always did have a sense of humor ! His residents always said what a wonderful Dr he was - RIP AJ - Erica
Erica
January 6, 2018
I've worked as a nurse and have known AJ when he did rounds in our nursing home - he was always very caring and was one of the last Drs who always came in to assess his residents - and always did have a sense of humor ! His residents always said what a wonderful Dr he was - RIP AJ - Erica
Tara Nielsen
January 5, 2018
A true loss of more than just a physician - he was so much more then that to his patients, his colleagues, his students, and his community. We all became a part of his "extended family".
Personally, as a previous colleague, a longtime patient, a NP who spent a clinical rotation as his student, a mentor to me, and a friend.... words cannot express how much you will be missed.
My condolences to Julie and the rest of the Capelli family. May knowing that he lives on for all of eternity with God bring you some comfort during this difficult time.
Andy Wiesenthal
January 5, 2018
He was always brimming with life and gusto. This is so hard to believe. My sympathy to Julie and the kids.
Mark & Jonelle Johnson
January 5, 2018
May the Lord bless and keep you, Capelli Family. Doc was simply the best. Our prayers are with you Julie, Vince, Cara and Peter.
Liz Munns
January 5, 2018
AJ CAPELLI YOUR WERE A AWSOME DOCTOR.I WILL MISS YOUR JOLLY SOUL YOUR HUGS YOUR LAUGHTER. IT WONT BE THE SAME WITH OUT YOU. FLY HIGH WITH THE ANGELS THANKS FOR YOUR SERVICE. ONE OF MANY PAICENT WHO GOING MISS YOU
Terry Behm
January 5, 2018
I was also lucky enough to have Dr. Capelli as my physician for the last 25 years since I moved to Kenosha. He was the best Dr. I ever had and I don't think I will ever find one like him. Condolences and prayers to his family.He was the best!!!
Melissa Lemke
January 5, 2018
We are sending the Capelli family our warm thoughts at this challenging time.
Dr. Capelli inspired/taught many a medical student to do your best, work with compassion, and serve where you are needed the most.
Many will work to carry on his legacy.
Bob and Nancy Schmitt
January 4, 2018
Dear Julie, Vince, Cara and Peter-
We are devastated by your loss-John was an amazing person who will never be forgotten, and will always be missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with you...
With love from the Schmitt family
January 4, 2018
Our most heartfelt condolences to Julie and the Capelli family. John will be missed as a colleague and dear friend.
Ajit and Madhavi Parekh
Gabrielle Bates
January 4, 2018
While in Physician assistant school Dr. Capelli agreed to become my preceptor for family medicine. He made me a much more confident provider and I will always cherish what I learned from him about medicine as well as life.
Matt Daniel
January 4, 2018
I was lucky enough to have Dr. Capelli as my physician for the last 15 years. Best Dr. I have ever been to and there will never be another like him! Condolences and prayers to his family. One of a kind!!!!!!
Ann Bornhuetter
January 4, 2018
R I p my friend.. May you be at peace and watch over all those who loved you... you were an awesome human being who cared about so many...
Joyce Sorensen
January 4, 2018
Julie & family,
Those we love don't go away, they walk besides us, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear. Thinking of your entire family at this difficult time, and wishing you comfort and peace. AJ provided us with many laughs while working together at St. Catherine's and of course, Aurora. Never a dull moment when AJ was in the hospital. We all will hold on to the many good times and memories of "AJ with a big smile. Extending my sincere sympathy.
Massie Family
January 4, 2018
I was blessed to have had Dr. Capelli as my Dr. for the past 34 yrs. He delivered my children, adding them to his practice and later delivering one of my grandson's. What made them special deliveries though... was that kiss on each of their tiny behinds (video taped too!) Do Dr.s do that...not really...However, HE DID that's the kind of things he just! He was passionate and caring and he love what he did. Like his hugs; he knew when you needed one! Doc, you will be so very missed!!!
Our Thoughts and Prayers go out to all the Capelli Family.
Sincerely, The Massie Family
Connie, Amanda, Lauren & Kevin
Kelly & Jaden Perryman, & Alayna Schneider
Rachel Lofton
January 3, 2018
You were a great physician and you will be truly missed.
Jean Ayers
January 3, 2018
Dr. John was a blessing to so many. He was one of a kind, always treating everyone with dignity and kindness. Such a compassionate soul now with our Savior. Dearly loved and missed. Prayers for peace to the family.
Jackie Schierenberg
January 3, 2018
Dr. Capelli was amazing.. He was my entire family's Doctor.. He saved my dad's life..He saved many many lives..We are all deeply saddened by his sudden passing... On behalf of myself and my family I would like to send our condolences to his wonderful family, and thank you all for sharing this Beautiful man, and wonderful Doctor with all of his patients. Including my family, many friends, and myself.. I had an appointment early tuesday morning at his office, and was given the horrible news of his passing.. My heart broke to see all those familar loving faces, Completely Devastated, Thank you all for always being so wonderful, caring, and professinal, I'm so sorry, All of You.. I hope it brings you comfort to know our hearts are with you, and that you learned from the Best. God Bless You
My deepest Sympathy
to everyone affected by
the loss of our beloved
❤ Dr. A. J. Capelli ❤
Andrew Hansen
January 3, 2018
Thank you for helping my mother last year as she was your patient. You were so caring. You will be missed.
LUCINDA WHITEFOOT
January 3, 2018
I came to you in 1984 when we needed to find a family doctor. You delivered or children and have been more than our dr. You have been a family friend.
For years after my father passed you spoke of how much you miss him. Then you came to see my mom as she lay with cancer steadily taking her life, while she was in hospice care at home.
You went far beyond the duties of Dr. You became everyones friend.
I believe for years people will talk about how much you are missed...
Bye for now , CW
Terry Principe
January 3, 2018
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Cappelli family. Terry P
Carol Hansen Broaddus
January 3, 2018
Dr.A.J will be missed by all.
Carol
Tori Stevens
January 3, 2018
Dr. Capelli was one of a kind. He delivered both of my sons. I am so thankful to say that i had the pleasure to know you. I remember anytime i would bring my babies in for check-ups you would take them to the patients rooms and say "i delivered this beautiful baby". May you rest in peace Dr. Capelli. You will be so very missed.
Carlos Espinoza
January 3, 2018
You will be missed sadly buddy. Always funny and optimistic you made me feel special.
Our prayers are out for family and friends.
May your light shine forever.
Laura Affield
January 3, 2018
Julie and family,
My deepest condolences, the world has lost a truly beautiful soul. AJ delivered two of my four daughters. Then when we moved back to the area, he delivered my oldest grandson. We've since moved away again but often speak of him fondly. He will be sorely missed.
Jerry Lawrence
January 3, 2018
I was deeply saddened to learn of Dr. Capelli's death. He was my physician for several years, and I had great trust in his medical judgement. Just as important, he was an inspiration to everyone who came into contact with him. He was truly a great man, and I will always remember him.
Debbie Decker
January 3, 2018
My heart goes out to Julie and the family. John will be missed. He was not only my Dr. for many years and my boss for a while but was always a friend. Sincerely Debbie Decker
Gary DeBruin
January 3, 2018
As a patient Dr. Capelli always had a calming effect no matter how badly I felt with his gift of humor, professional expertise and his great love for people. I'll never forget a story he had once told me of his father with tears in his eyes. Dr. Capelli was a great man. He will missed by so many. God bless him and his family.
Julie Herbst
January 3, 2018
Our whole family is greatly saddened by Dr. John's passing. He has been a wonderful doctor for us since he opened his practice. He birthed both of my children and just brought my first grandson into the world 2 months ago. He will be greatly missed. Gone too soon! Larry, Julie, Jason, Katie, Holland and Trent Herbst (And many other family members and friends who loved him!)
Mia Swatkowski
January 3, 2018
You have not only been our Dr for 27 years but our friend. You delivered our 4 daughters, given them the customary kiss on their behinds and cared for our family for almost 3 decades. You could always hear John coming down the hallway, cracking jokes. Always a hug, and always be able to explain things in plain english. I felt blessed to have him as our family physician. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Words cannot express our sorrow and the impact he had on ours and so many lives.
Joyce Sorensen
January 3, 2018
Julie & family, Those we love don't go away, they walk besides us, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed and very dear. Thinking of you all at this difficult time, and wishing you comfort and peace. AJ provided us with many laughs while working together at St. Catherine's and of course, Aurora. Never a dull moment when AJ was in the hospital. We all will hold on to the many good times and memories of "AJ with a big smile. Extending my sincere sympathy.
Jackie
January 3, 2018
Dr. A.J. delivered my one and only child back in 2004. He has been my physician since I was a teen. He always gave me a great big hug whenever I had to come into the clinic. Condolences to his family and Kenosha for losing such a wonderful person and healthcare provider. He cared about people and you could tell it was genuine every time you had an interaction with him. You will be sorely missed by all.
John Slanchik
January 3, 2018
Our thoughts and prayers to his family and loved ones.
I am so very thankful that I just visited with him last month at my physical. An
office visit with AJ was a visit with a friend.
AJ will be missed!
PAMELA BRANTLEY
January 3, 2018
Such a terrible loss.He will be greatly missed. Loved the Kicking and Screaming part tho. I've waited forever to see that in the obits.
Pam Pacetti-Schlitz
January 3, 2018
AJ will always be in my heart and in my soul forever, he will always be amazing to me for all you have done for me and my family. Julie, Vince, Cara and Peter always know that your husband and father was amazing in what he did for people both in healing and teaching. Thank you AJ for all your hard work! My heart goes out to the Capelli family.
Barb Erdman
January 3, 2018
A true advocate for patients and nurses. Many good memories of a very kind and compassionate physician. God bless his family during this difficult time.
Ron and Mary Lou Viola and Family
January 3, 2018
Dear Julie and family,
We are deeply saddened by the passing of the greatest doctor and friend we have ever had. He served our family for many years and showed the highest level of care and compassion. We loved bringing him Italian cookies whenever we had an appointment. We are very sorry we are unable to attend the services since we are out of town until February. We will say special prayers for you and your family as we wipe away the tears. He will never be forgotten.
Debra Perry
January 3, 2018
I can't imagine a world without this wonderful man. You will be dearly missed.
Wendy Olsen
January 3, 2018
In loving memory of a wonderful person, friend and physician. We will love you and miss you always. No words can express the sorrow we are feeling for such a compassionate, loving, and generous person. Prayers to his family during this time of grief.
Brent Irving
January 3, 2018
Dr. Capelli's charismatic leadership has inspired so many. As a physician, a friend and "comedian", many are deeply saddened by Dr. Capelli's passing. He will never be forgotten and will always be remembered.
January 3, 2018
A.J. was the most compassionate, down to earth, real Dr. we have ever known. He gave much needed hugs and was there for our family after loosing our second child, Sarah. He will be missed! Mike and Robin Fiedler
Jim Padlock
January 3, 2018
Dr. Capelli was everything that was right in this crazy world ... my family doctor and friend for more than 25 years. He was simply the best of the best - a HUGE loss for the Kenosha community. My deepest sympathies to all who knew him, especially his family and his closest friends.
Karen & Rose Koerber
January 3, 2018
Our deepest condolences to the entire Capelli, McTernan & Knight families.
So sorry for your loss.
Dr A.J. will be remembered fondly; especially for his compassionate care of our Dad Bill.
Clete Willems
January 3, 2018
AJ was a rare individual who lived life to the fullest while remaining an exceptionally good and decent man. He will be missed by all who knew him. God bless your family in his loss.
Elizabeth McKinney-Shope, RN
January 3, 2018
The staff at Kepro are deeply saddened by our loss of Dr.Capelli, he was truly one of the finest physicians we worked with. We considered him part of our family. May God grant peace to his family.
kathie Delaney
January 3, 2018
a.
Dr. Capelli, you will be missed, beyond messure. I had you for my Dr. since you started in Kenosha,You were caring, loving, absolute great Dr. the best in Kenosha, I am so saddened by your passing. I will miss you so very much, you saved my life 3yrs ago.i will continue to see Mark, your right hand Dr.practinsiner,he will miss you very much too.you are an icone to Kenosha people, you helped oh, so many. Rest in peace my dear Dr. much love Kathie Delaney and cinnamon, my cavilier king Charles puppy you saw, before Christmas.RIP.
Terry Maraccini
January 3, 2018
Trusted physician, compassionate provider, dear friend. God bless you A. J.
Brian Kevek
January 3, 2018
Johnny will be greatly missed. The world not only lost a great Physician, but a truly wonderful person who gave selflessly to everyone he touched. I am very sorry for your loss.
January 3, 2018
Dr. Capelli, your talent, your smile, your humor, you will be greatly missed. God's Peace to all your family, Shelley & Ed Meyer and Ethel Mandernack.
Richard nicolo
January 3, 2018
You will be sadly missed. I was a patient for 30 years. I am sure his office will be lost without him.
Dawn Hilty
January 3, 2018
He will be missed by ALL.
frank parise
January 3, 2018
Thoughts and prayers from Frank & Cheryl Parise Family
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