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David Kaphingst Obituary
David Kaphingst, 55, of Freedom passed away unexpectedly in California on Tuesday, April 23, 2013. He was born on December 20, 1957 to Edward and Marion (Albert) Kaphingst. On November 10, 1979 he married Karen (Schuh) Kaphingst. He and Karen were blessed with many years together and three beautiful daughters, Nikki, Erin, and Amy, whom he loved dearly. His children and grandchildren meant the world to him.
Dave had a passion and talent for photography and made that his lifelong profession. Through this he was proud to create lasting memories for countless people. His work took him across the country, and he often boasted that he had traveled to 48 of the 50 states. More important to him were the many colleagues he was able to also call his friends.
In addition, Dave was very involved in the community. He was a member of the Freedom Volunteer Fire Department for over 30 years, including most recently serving on their Board of Directors. Dave was also very involved in his church. As a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church, he was honored to serve the congregation on numerous boards over the years.
Dave was the type of guy who knew someone everywhere he went. He had a gift for making people laugh with his quirky sense of humor, even if he was the only one who thought it was funny. He enjoyed cooking, going out for Friday Night Fish, anything to do with computers, and most of all spending time with his family. He took us on many adventures throughout the years, whether on a family vacation across the country or just at home. No matter where we were, he handled being outnumbered by "his girls" well and wouldn't have wanted it any other way.
Dave will be deeply missed by his wife of 33 years, Karen; three daughters and their husbands: Nikki (Mike) Vesperman of Evansville, Erin (Jude) Simons of Plover, and Amy (Pete) Fitschen of Champaign IL; his precious grandchildren: Evie and Miller Vesperman and Natalie Simons. He will also be missed by his siblings: Ken (Judy) Kaphingst, Karen (Earl) Monday, Keith (Karen) Kaphingst, and Kay (Greg) Scott; Karen's parents: Jerry and Bev Schuh; and Karen's siblings: Kathy (Marv) Spierings, Karol Peterson, Kevin Schuh, and Konnie Schuh; five godchildren; twenty-seven nieces and nephews and numerous other family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents: Edward and Marion Kaphingst, brother-in-law and dear friend: Jim "Morgan" Peterson.
The Christian Funeral Service for Dave will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at TRINITY EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH, 804 Grignon Street in Kaukauna, with Rev. Karl Schultz and Rev. Timothy Wilkens officiating. Dave will be buried at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Kaukauna. Friends may call at the Fargo Funeral Home in Kaukauna on Monday, April 29 from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM, and again Tuesday morning at the church after 9:00 AM. A memorial fund in Dave's name has been established, and online condolences may be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Shawn and Debbie Erickson, Anna of Fox World Travel, and the thoughtful staff at O'Connor Mortuary in Laguna Hills, CA and Fargo Funeral Home in Kaukauna.
Most importantly, we would like to thank our family and friends for their outpouring of support during this difficult time.
Dave felt strongly about the value of organ donation and would want everyone to know that his loving family has given the gift of life to someone in need.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Kaphingst
Joe & Alyce Kilsdonk
May 4, 2013
Our deepest condolences and heart-felt prayers to a neighbor gone too soon.
Charles Anderson, Financial Consultant
May 2, 2013
Our heart goes out to you and know that your family is and will remain in our prayers, I lost my brother last July to liver cancer and our seven year old grandson in September to an agressive form of Leukemia. It is only with the strength of our faith, family, and friends that we are able to cope with the heartache and loss. We look forward to the day when we will see one another again. My prayer is for strength in the saving knowledge of our Lord, Jesus Christ. May God be with you during this time of sorrow.
Ann Pierre
May 2, 2013
I had the pleasure of working with Dave many years ago at the photo lab in Kaukauna and he was the highlight of my time there. He could always make us laugh. Wishing you Christ's peace as warm memories fill the space in your hearts left by Dave's passing.
Mike Heidtbrink
May 1, 2013
I am so sorry for your loss at such an early age. May God give you the peace that passes all of our understanding.
Pat Miller
May 1, 2013
I worked with Dave a lot when I was editor of Correspondent magazine and he was taking all of our wonderful photos. Dave was such a talented, positive, supportive force, and he was undoubtedly one of the kindest, best people I have ever worked with. I learned a lot from him.
Diane Ciske
April 30, 2013
Karen, Dave was a classmate of mine, from grade school at Trinity through high school at FVL. He was our photographer for our wedding. Very wonderful guy. Hoping you find comfort in the knowledge that he is in heaven with Our Lord.
Leah Abrahams
April 30, 2013
I worked with Dave for several years at AAL/Thrivent and realized how talented he was--not just as an artist, but as a human being. He was always ready to help and to consult. His sense of humor and kindness were right there in each conversation. May your good memories sustain your family during this time of loss.
Brian and Deb Palmer
April 30, 2013
Karen and family, working with Dave all those years was a pure pleasure. My day was always a little brighter when I met Dave in the hall or had lunch with him. It's truly amazing how God gifted him and how wonderfully he used that gift. Deb and I will miss him. Let us know how we may help in the days ahead.
April 30, 2013
Dear Kaphingst Family,
Victoria and I were in San Diego and we saw Dave the evening before taking our pic taken with Casting Crowns but with him hiding behind the lens we didn't connect. The LORD is good, his love endures forever! I pray the consolation of the resurrection continues to bless and keep you even as the saints lift you up in our prayers. Sincerely in Our Savior,
Andre and Victoria Frandle (aka Vicar)
April 30, 2013
I was attending the convention where Dave was everywhere, taking pictures, and having fun with people. We will all miss his great spirit. Love to the family from a Thrivent family.
Karsten and Kirsten Lundring
Doug Watkins
April 30, 2013
I never had the pleasure of really getting to know David. I just knew he was a wonderful person all of the many times I encountered at Thrivent events. May the Lord's richest blessings help you and your family through this sad time for those left here on earth.
Nick Friedt
April 30, 2013
Praying for you and your family.
Steve Weber
April 29, 2013
Karen and family, you will be in our daily thoughts and prayers. Dave was such a special guy at work-he was very professional, always had our back, and was a lot of fun. Thanks for sharing him with us.
April 29, 2013
Karen and family you have my heartfelt sympathy and are in my thoughts and prayers.
Joy Rickert 1977 Freedom graduate
April 29, 2013
So sorry to her of David. Keeping you in my prayer.
April 29, 2013
Our deepest sympathy Karen to you and then girls. Dave was a true good person. I know he is in heaven watching over you. It was my pleasure to know and work at one time with him.
Pat and Jim Seegers
Tom and Traci Springstroh
April 29, 2013
Karen and family, So sorry to hear of of Dave. We are going to miss his humor and laugh. Prayers to the Schuh family
Leslee Gardinier
April 29, 2013
Ken, Karen, Keith and Kay, our deepest sympathy in losing your little brother. I remember meeting Dave in the 60's at FVL functions; such a fun kid and Dave probably carried that wonderful sense of humor throughout his life. God bless and may your wonderful memories sustain you. Leslee and brother, Clay Gardinier.
Don & Kathy Kirby & family
April 29, 2013
Dear Karen & family, our hearts go out to you in this sad time. We always enjoyed a quick chat with the ever-friendly Dave, whenever we'd be out on a Teardrop Lane stroll. Great neighbors like Dave, are part of what makes a place home. We are very sorry for your loss. Please be comforted by the knowledge that he's with God in His Heaven, now.
Cheryl Van Toll
April 29, 2013
Oh my gosh!! I just came across Dave's obituary. I'm am so sorry for your loss. He was a sweet man and will be greatly missed by so many. My heart goes out to your family.
Cheryl Van Toll (Evers)
Lora Newhouse
April 29, 2013
Know that the whole Kaphingst and Schuh family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Kind Regards,
Lora
April 29, 2013
Karen and Family,We are so sorry for your loss. Dave was a great guy and neighbor. We will miss him always. Hugs to you all, and let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
Dave and Julie Malliet
Kim Rudat
April 28, 2013
Some of my best memories from AAL were working at the Lutheran Youth Gatherings with Dave. He was a terrific guy and a true professional. My sympathy to his family and may the angels hold them all close.
Marilyn , and Jerry, Treichel
April 28, 2013
Karen and family , Dave was a GREAT neighbor, always there to help, whether it was a computer problem, clearing the driveway, or just taking care of Teardrop Ln. We will all miss him. He was a "GEM". Know that we are all sadden by his passing and God has a special spot for his talent and kindness. May you find peace with the wonderful memories you had as a family.
Paul Weihing
April 28, 2013
Dave and I were classmates at FVL. I am very sorry for your loss. May the Lord comfort you and your family with His ever sure promises of eternal life.
Marcie DeGroot-Flasch
April 28, 2013
I was sorry to hear of this loss. Dave was a great guy and a joy to work with at AAL/Thrivent. May God's peace be with his family and friends during these difficult days.
April 28, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends who knew Dave. I was a FVL classmate of Dave's and got to know him even better during our time spent together working on the yearbooks. He was a great guy - always smiling. Your in a better place Dave - until we have our next reunion with you and God... we'll miss you. Julie Meer, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
April 28, 2013
Karen,
So sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.
Sandy Weyers 1977 Freedom graduate.
Karen Muenster
April 27, 2013
Karen and family; May He give you strength in this difficult time, to live on with the many wonderful memories you have of Dave. Ben and Karen (VanDenBosch) Muenster
April 27, 2013
Dave and I were FVL class mates sorry for your loss, but I know he is now in a BETTER Place! Orlan Buchholz.
Karen Blohm
April 27, 2013
From a fellow 1976 graduate of FVL. You are with the Lord now.
Brenda Hooyman
April 27, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Dave created special memories as he photographed 3 of 4 children for AAL brochures. He will be missed dearly.
April 27, 2013
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Dave created many memories for me when I worked at AAL with. Hold on to the memories.
April 27, 2013
Karen.. Sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Gary & Sherry Hooyman
Dave Lande
April 27, 2013
To Dave's family, my most sincere condolences. His talent in photography brought joy to people, and I feel indebted for his work on several book projects in the 1990s. Very sorry to have lost touch over the years. His artistic photo of a U.S. flag, nearly 20 years old, still hangs in my office today. Thank you Dave.
John and Connie Wheeler
April 26, 2013
We are so sorry to hear about Dave's passing. He was a great person and will be missed greatly. The Fire Department is a family and they lost a great brother. Karen, please know that we have you and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Jolene & Aaron Vosters
April 26, 2013
Karen,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Dave was such an kind, good hearted person. I'm truely sorry for your loss. Take care!!
April 26, 2013
Karen, so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers.
Mark & Sue Geiger
Mary Greiner
April 26, 2013
What a great guy! As I'm writing this, I'm looking at Dave's picture and remembering the good times we had either at work functions or at the fire department gatherings. As others have said, he was a kind, gentle person that genuinely cared about people and just made a person feel good whenever you talked with him. We'd often talk about our kids and he was so proud of all of his girls (including you, Karen)! We will miss him...his smile...his laugh and his kind heart. We are praying for you all for strength. God Bless!
Mike and Carrie DeCoster
April 26, 2013
Karen....you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Times like these makes us realize how valuable life's little moments are and we should cherish them to the fullest. Dave gave that opportunity to many people through is photography, we cherish our wedding pictures very much that Dave did. God Bless you and your family at this time.
Deb Obry
April 26, 2013
I am so sorry to hear about Dave's passing. I worked with Dave at AAL/Thrivent. Dave was always a kind, caring, fun guy who was always upbeat and just genuinely nice to all. May God bless your family in this time of sorrow.
Jamie Schmidt Spice
April 26, 2013
Karen,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. I didn't get the chance to know Dave, but just seeing him at the Class Reunion, I got the impression he was a very happy go lucky guy that loved people. Have Peace in knowing he is with his Heavenly Father. I pray for you and your family to have strength during this time of sorrow.
God Bless.
Mary VanDenBosch
April 26, 2013
So sad for you and the entire family - love and prayers to all.
Peggy Moehn
April 26, 2013
Karen so sorry for your lose. My prayers are with you and your family.
Steve and Kim Sturm
April 26, 2013
Karen and Family,
We are very sorry to hear about Dave. He was a wonderful person with a great smile and personality. We enjoyed seeing you 2 out and chatting about the good old days. Dave will truly be missed by many. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very sad time.
Joe & Sherry Peterson
April 26, 2013
Karen and Family,
We are very sorry for your loss. Dave was a very special person with a heart of gold. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Curtis Detjen
April 25, 2013
I am sincerely sorry to hear of Daves passing. He was a very fine individual.
God will be pleased that he has joined
the Heavenly Host.
Mike and Lynn Vande Hey
April 25, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Rick and Nancy Van Gheem
April 25, 2013
Karen we are so sorry to hear about Dave. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. He will be deeply missed by all.
Judy Bresser
April 25, 2013
Karen and family: I hope that my prayers comfort you during this very sad time. Dave was a good guy and I know he will be missed.
Mary Kay Rogers-Deering
April 25, 2013
Karen and family,
We are so sorry for you loss. I will always remember Dave for his big, bright smile. Lots of fish lunches at Skyview Club. Let God wrap his arms around you and protect you during this difficult time. I have known Dave for over 40 years now. Lots of great memories. Hug Hug
Carol Moyer
April 25, 2013
Karen and Family: I truly am sorry for your loss. I had gone to grade school and high school with Dave. He is a great guy. Kind and gentle to his family and all. Wonderful talent with camera. God will grant you the strength you will need to get through this and will bless and support you until you see him again in heaven.
God's blessing to you.
Joni Simons Conrad
April 25, 2013
Dear Karen and Family,
I knew Dave through my work at AAL/Thrivent. He was a kind, patient, and gentle soul, always putting everyone at ease, with that ever present famous smile. He will be greatly missed. My sincere sympathy,
Jeff & Michelle Huss
April 25, 2013
I'm sorry to hear about the passing of David. I knew him a long time ago when he used to run the Freedom BBS and later with AAL and the Freedom Fire Dept. with my father. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Ken & Marlene Vandenberg
April 25, 2013
Karen & family ~
We are so sorry for your loss. Ken and I will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers during the difficult days ahead.
Jeff Wiltsey
April 25, 2013
Karen and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Dave was like a brother to me, my best friend and a part of my life for 35 years. He will greatly missed.
Chris Callies
April 25, 2013
I have known Dave for a better part of 10 years and will truely miss him. As a fellow photographer he and I worked together many of times and he was always someone I could go to for advice or pointers. More importantly he was a great friend.
Dave was a true gentleman and we all lost one of the "good guys" this week. I had nick names for most people I worked with and his was "Special K"....he was special to alot of people in alot of ways. The good do die young...and he went way too quick. Dave, I hope you have met up with Morgan and are kicking back taking it easy now.
My thoughts go out to Karen and his three wonderful daughters and their families. Dave was a great husband, father and grandfather and I know you are all going to miss him. Stay strong and know that he will always be with us.
Judy Hansen(Baneck)
April 25, 2013
Karen,
I am so sorry for your loss.
Steve Wuerger
April 25, 2013
I am so saddened to hear about Dave. We worked together at AAL and went on many business trips together. I will always remember his laugh, and all the wonderful stories he told about his family. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Eric Young
April 25, 2013
As a mutual friend of Dave's and I were discussing yesterday....somehow the saying "only the good die young" came to mind first.
Dave was a class act.... calm, patient, respectful, funny, good natured, reserved and wise, and just a prince of a man. He was a beautiful human being, all the way around.
I worked with him on and off since 2008 and was always happy to see his and my name on the schedule together. He taught me a lot, and not just about photography.
Take care, my friend. Way too soon.....
Frank & Deb Reimer
April 25, 2013
Karen, We are so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sara Sprangers (Krueger)
April 25, 2013
Girls, so saddened by your loss. You are all in my prayers. Condolences from Gail and Nikki as well.
April 25, 2013
I had the pleasure and honor of working with Dave for years at AAL and Thrivent. I loved every moment. He was the ultimate professional, managed every assignment beautifully, and did all of it with his great smile. He made important and hard work fun.
I am so sorry and saddened; and want you to know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
God's Blessings Always,
Alyce Dumke
Shelly and Jeff Sturm
April 25, 2013
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Karen and your family. We are sorry for your loss.
Kristi Kemp
April 25, 2013
I have to give Dave credit for helping me become the photographer I am today. I learned so much working with him everyday for 10 years. And it was a joy to be able to work with him on occasion the last few years. Not only was he a great mentor, he was my friend. I will miss him greatly.
Judith Griswold -Fowler
April 25, 2013
I am so greatful that I got to spend time with Dave and the Kaphingst family in July, 2010. Love, Cousin Judith Griswold Fowler
Joe & Lorrie Hofacker and Family
April 25, 2013
Karen and family, You have our deepest sympathy. Anything you need, please give a call and we are more than willing to help.
Chuck & Edith Hough
April 25, 2013
Karen we are so sorry for yor loss! Dave
was a joy to work with at AAL. We lost touch with each other after I retired and am really sorry about that.He will be missed.
sandy young
April 25, 2013
ERIN AND AMY
so sorry to hear about your dad just remember he is in a much better place. i will keep you in my pray's
Terry VanWychen
April 25, 2013
Karen:
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. You have my sincerest condolences. Our hearts are with you.
Laurie Tank
April 25, 2013
Karen and family, So sorry to hear about Dave. You are in my thoughts and prayers today and always.
Mary Harp-Jirschele
April 25, 2013
Dave was a joy to work with and he will be missed. Heaven has gained a wonderful photographer and a great guy.
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