William F Kappler Jr.

William F. "Billy" Kappler Jr. Age 78 Brick, NJ---
William F. "Billy" Kappler Jr., 78, of Brick, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025. He was born on September 5, 1947, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and spent many cherished summers with his family on Green Island, where his life-long love for the shore began.
Billy was a proud graduate of Toms River High School and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rutgers University. He went on to devote more than forty-two years as a mechanical engineer with the Federal Government at Lakehurst Naval Air Station. Throughout his career, he worked alongside his guide dogs beginning with his first dog Winston, each in a unique partnership that meant a great deal to him and reflected his independence and determination. Billy was widely respected for his intelligence, dedication, and strong work ethic, and he was recognized with awards and accolades throughout his career.
Billy's natural curiosity extended beyond his career, and he enjoyed exploring the inner workings of technology and mechanics. He carried this passion and effort to understand the world around him throughout his life in his love for classic cars, photography, and sailing, and even in the way he connected with those around him.
He is survived by his wife, Gail Kappler; his grandchild, Brandon Kappler; his siblings, Elizabeth Ploskonka and her husband John, and Alan Kappler and his wife Marie; his nephew, Matthew Kappler; and his nieces, Jacqui Kappler and Hannah Ploskonka. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Elizabeth Kappler.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, December 23rd, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Silverton Memorial Funeral Home, 2482 Church Road, Toms River, NJ, with a service at 4:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:
The Seeing Eye P.O. Box 375, Morristown, NJ 07963-0375
Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF) P.O. Box 5042, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5042
Billy's legacy of love, perseverance, and connection will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.