Jeffrey Frank Capaldi

Jeffrey Frank Capaldi

September 3, 1960 – September 3, 2025

Jeff Capaldi went home (as he would say) on September 3, 2025-his 65th Birthday. Facing cancer for a second time with strength, dignity, and faith, Jeff's final chapter was marked by perseverance, courage, hope, and gratitude.

As a faithful Christian, he found community in Colonial Woods Missionary Church over the past decade, where he was known as the guy in the back row in the black leather jacket. 'Jesus Calling' was a daily inspiration he lived by.

Born September 3, 1960, in Mt. Clemens, Michigan, Jeff was the son of the late Lawrence and Margaret Capaldi (Phillips). He is survived by his sister Pamela, brother Christopher (Susanne), and beloved companion Donna. He was preceded in death by brothers Mark and Bruce. Jeff was a cherished uncle to Elizabeth, Rory, Andrew, Amanda, Aaron, and Ariel, who will miss his many stories, advice, and life lessons.

Jeff graduated from Warren High School in 1978, where he played football after years of childhood sports with his brothers. In 1979, Jeff was awarded a Marine Corps ROTC Scholarship with hopes of becoming a pilot. When Jeff's eyesight precluded him from flying, he opted-out of the scholarship and chose a path he had always loved – fast cars.

Jeff then graduated from Ferris State College in 1984 with an Associate Degree in Automotive Service Technology and a Bachelor's Degree in Automotive Management/Engineering Technology. From 1984 to 2001, Jeff worked at Toyota Motors in Cincinnati, rising to District Service Manager (1984-1992) and Service Training Specialist (1992-2001) while earning the status of ASE Master Technician and Toyota Master Diagnostic Technician. During his time as a Toyota Technical Trainer, he was highly regarded and respected by National, Regional, and Dealership personnel as one of the Best.

Following these happy years in Ohio, Jeff prioritized family and returned to Michigan where he worked for many years as a key member of Bechtel Sand and Gravel in Brown City, MI. He was instrumental in repairs for heavy equipment, running the wash-plant, and contributing to the infrastructure to keep 'the pit' operational.

Throughout his years in Ohio and Michigan, Jeff spent countless hours under chassis and hoods or behind the wheel of fast cars. Racing was a huge part of who he was. He competed in NASCAR-sanctioned short track series for over 30 years, earning his first big win at Kil-Kare Raceway in Ohio. He spent endless hours working on the #35 Outlaw Super Late Model, fondly referred to as 'The Money Pit'. 'Capaldi Racing' saw many Saturday nights at the track with friends and family as Pit Crew. Jeff raced at Kil-Kare, Sandusky, Dixie, Owosso, and Auto City Speedways. After retiring from driving about 10 years ago, he still enjoyed long, fast Harley rides through country cornfields and along the Lake Huron shore.

Music was especially important to Jeff. From his first teen rock band with his brother Mark 'Alpha Omega' (eighth grade) to 'Marshall Law' (1979 Miami University, OH) and later 'Black Moss' (1980 Ferris State, Big Rapids, MI), Jeff was a dedicated drummer. His years at Ferris State were filled with concerts and band nights as the drummer for 'Black Moss', a punk-rock band and 'Battle of the Bands' winner. Jeff shared his love of music widely, introducing friends and family to his favorite songs and new artists.

Jeffrey Frank Capaldi lived a big life, full of extraordinary experiences and remarkable people. Honesty (sometimes what we didn't want to hear!) and helping others were the foundations of Jeff's life. If you needed a helping hand, Jeff was there. From cars to carpentry, to plumbing and electronics, he could fix almost anything. He quietly helped many, as it was his way of showing his affection. He was generous with his time and skill, including with the Lexington Lakeview HOA Board and residents, where he recently served as Treasurer and lived for the past 10 years on the Lake Huron shore. He was always there for those in need-except when visiting Blue Chip Casino, his favorite fun spot!

Jeff's final act of generosity was donating his body to the University of Michigan's 'Gift of Knowledge' Program, hoping others might learn from his case. Sometimes joking about the occasional Busch, Jeff's liver was in good shape, which was important, given his aggressive cancer. U of M requested the donation, and he was glad to help. Jeff was always helping others-and continues to do so.

His ashes will rest in a shared gravesite with his mother Margaret Capaldi at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, MI, after the University completes its studies. More sentiments from friends and family about Jeff's remarkable life will be shared at his Memorial Prayer Service and Party on October 18, 2025 in Port Huron, MI.

Jeff Capaldi Memorial Prayer Service and Party

Saturday, October 18, 2025

Jeff kept telling us, "Just have a big party so no one is sad." In honoring his wishes, we would appreciate greatly if you would join us for his memorial and party. Everyone is welcome! Feel free to pass the invite along!

WHEN: Saturday, October 18, 2025

TIME: 2:00 Arrivals and Welcome

2:30pm – 3:15pm Memorial Prayer Service

3:15pm – 5:30pm Jeff Capaldi Party

WHERE: Doubletree by Hilton Hotel – The Abbey - 800 Harker St., Port Huron, MI 48060

HOTEL ROOM SPECIAL RATE: Phone for reservations by Oct 4 to secure special rate of $189. 810-984-8000 If after Oct 4, rooms will be available, but not utilizing reduced rate. Ask for the 'Jeff Capaldi Party.'

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (https://www.stjude.org/donate), a charity that Jeff supported.