Marcel Kapulica

1934 - 2024

Marcel Kapulica
06/08/1934 - 10/11/2024
It is with sadness deep in our hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Marcel Kapulica, on October 11, 2024, surrounded by the love of his family. At 90 years young, he succumbed to the injuries sustained in a fall. All who knew Marcel, know the bright light that has been dimmed by the loss of such a shining star. Born in Seraing, Belgium in 1934, to Cvitan and Eva, he lived through the ravages and poverty of WWII, gaining a deep appreciation for the simplest of life's offerings. His parents, who had emigrated to Belgium from Croatia, repatriated back to what was then Belgrade, Yugoslavia in 1947, where Marcel spent his adolescent years, and subsequently, completed 3 years of military service. With sponsorship from a relative he arrived in the U.S in 1957, and went on to live the American dream, with a heavy dose of French culture mixed in, thanks to Louise Miramon, the love of his life for 64 years. He and Louise met in night school to learn English and married in 1961. They initially lived in the Marina district before settling in the Sunset district during which time they welcomed sons John and Michel, 14 months apart.
Marcel's first job was as a dishwasher at Original Joe's on Taylor street. Ultimately, he found his way as a dental laboratory technician, becoming a partner and subsequently the sole owner of Empire Dental Lab in North Beach. He loved being in North Beach and knew every merchant and restaurant owner by name. Notorious for his 4-hour lunches and the mini bar in his office, a visit to his lab often resulted in a long chat accompanied by a Picon Punch. His skills as a lab technician were unparalled-the most complex cases always went to Empire Dental. As President of the California Dental Laboratory Association, he was active in the industry often in Sacramento advancing legislative initiatives. He was recognized for his achievements with many industry awards. Although he sold his lab in his 70s, he continued to work at various labs well into his 80s since retirement was not in his vocabulary.
Marcel's achievements went well beyond his professional career. He melded his passion for life, people and giving with a dedication to numerous social and charitable organizations. He was an active member of La Ligue Henri IV, La Gauloise, Les Chasseurs, Les Fanneurs, the Odd Fellows and numerous others, often serving as a board member or president. He served many years as the Treasurer of the French Hospital Foundation and was active in neighborhood non-profits, including as a board member of Centro Latino.
Marcel was devoted to all matters of local politics and was a ferocious reader of local papers. He was active in numerous political campaigns and was key in organizing campaign efforts for George Moscone's mayoral election. He was appointed by Mayor Jordan to serve as an election commissioner.
Marcel loved soccer and was an avid fan of Hajduk, a Croatian soccer team. Watching World Cup futbol, with a Johnnie Walker Black in hand, was his joy. His other passion was photography-particularly capturing SF landmarks in dramatic black & whites, which he framed and gifted to many a friend.
What Marcel held most precious and his biggest accomplishment was the wide circle of family and friends who loved him deeply. His generosity was beyond measure. He and Louise made their home everyone's home. He loved nothing more than enjoying Louise's French cuisine with family and friends and sharing stories over a bottle of Bordeaux. His kindness, love and generosity will be missed, but his legacy will live on as we carry on his ethos of living each day to make others happy.
Predeceased by his brothers, Ivan and Jozo (Belgrade, Serbia), Marcel is survived by his wife Louise, her sister-in-law Jeanette Miramon, children John (Melissa) and Michel (Elizabeth), and his grandchildren, who counted Pepe as their best friend, Keenan, Griffen, Shae, Tatum, Alexander and Tyler.
Please join us to celebrate Marcel's life at a Mass (10:30 am) on Wednesday October 30, at Saints Peter and Paul Church, 666 Filbert Street, San Francisco. Reception immediately following at the Italian Athletic Club in North Beach. In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully suggests a donation in Marcel's memory to the Pomeroy Center (www.prrcsf.org).