Robert James Kapke

Robert James Kapke, 87, of Bella Vista, Ark., passed away Saturday, January 27, 2018, at Circle of Life Hospice, Bentonville, surrounded by children and grandchildren. He was born November 30, 1930, to Walter and Kathryn Kapke in Chicago. In 1953 he graduated from Bradley University with a degree in Industrial Engineering. He was ROTC in college and received a commission in the United States Air Force. Bob worked for GE until he was called into service in 1954. Bob served in Vietnam from 1964 to 1965. He served for 26 years until his retirement as a Lt. Colonel in 1981. Bob met the love of his life, Barbara, on a blind date in 1951 and they married in July of 1952. The marriage lasted 63 years until Barbara's death in 2016. They retired to Bella Vista in 1989. Bob loved all sports, but most of all he loved his Cubbies. He saw them lose the World Series in 1954 and win it in 2016. He was active in bowling and golf. Bob also enjoyed gardening, his daily crossword puzzle, and watching Jeopardy. He was an intelligent man with a great sense of humor and will be greatly missed. Survivors include their six children; Robert B. Kapke and wife Julie, Lynn Clay and husband Scott, Gail Davis, Ken Kapke and wife Susan, Lisa Harden and husband Randy, and Rich Kapke. Also, 14 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held February 2, 2018 at 11:00 a.m. at Highlands United Methodist Church, 371 Glasgow road, Bella Vista, Ark. 72715. Memorials may be made to BV Animal Shelter, 32 Bella Vista Way, Bella Vista, AR 72714, the Highland Church Building Fund or the Highland Church Youth Group. Arrangements are by Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory, 2258 Forest Hills Blvd., Bella Vista, Arkansas. On-line condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.