Cover photo for John Kappes's Obituary
John Kappes Profile Photo
John

John Kappes

d. March 4, 2024

For John Kappes 1959-2024
d. March 4, 2024
John passed away, after a 5 month battle with leukemia, enveloped in the love of his husband, Eric. He was 64.

John was born in Boise, Idaho and grew up in Havre, Montana. From a young age, John was recognized as a gifted, talented, intelligent, charismatic and likable young man. He took a leap of faith to the East coast and attended Yale University. He eventually began a lifelong career in journalism in Westchester, New York as an editor. He took another, greater and more fateful leap by accepting a job in Cleveland, Ohio at The Plain Dealer newspaper. His 30 year career at the paper began as a Copy Desk editor and progressed to managing editor roles in Friday Magazine, Arts and Entertainment and Features. His cast of coverage included everything from architecture, Fine Arts, Classical music, film, to popular culture. The support, guidance and loyalty he shared with his writers is legendary. More recently in the past 3 years, John made another, last leap to the business world in the role of Assistant Managing Editor at Crain’s Cleveland Business news. 

John was more though than just his esteemed career. He was a true intellect, an impressive writer, bibliophile, passionate lover of Modern art, and 1980s post-punk music. He was, most importantly, a devoted husband to Eric and dear friend to many.

Two consecutive events have been planned to memorialize John. April 27, 4-5 pm A Funeral and Remembrance service at Trinity Cathedral trinitycleveland.org, 2130 Euclid Avenue, 44115. Also April 27, 5-7 pm A Celebration of Life at The Hermit Club, 1629 Dodge Court, Cleveland 44114. Enter through the Hofbrauhaus. 

In lieu of flowers, we ask you to join us at the celebration and raise a glass to toast our beloved JK. Condolences and special memories of John can be shared with his loved ones online at www.heritagecremationsociety.com

Heritage Cremation & Burial Society
(216) 631-4500


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Service Schedule

Past Services

Funeral and Remembrance

Saturday, April 27, 2024

4:00 - 5:00 pm (Eastern time)

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Celebration of Life

Saturday, April 27, 2024

5:00 - 7:00 pm (Eastern time)

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