Elysburg, Pennsylvania - Joseph "Gary" Kappen, 82, of Elysburg, passed away Saturday, Feb. 3, 2024, at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

He was still tinkering in his garage and driving his lifted black Chevy pickup truck at 82 years young. You never knew where his next adventure might take him.

Gary was born Nov. 13, 1941, a son of Joseph M. and Shirley (Hain) Kappen. After graduating from Shamokin High School in 1959, he joined the Navy. He served aboard the USS Yellowstone and the USS Taylor Destroyer until 1964. 
After returning home from the Navy, he worked as a mechanic and eventually went into business for himself in Tharptown, including Gary's Garage and Gary's BMX Shop. Later he went into business with his son, forming G&M Enterprises selling cars and performance parts.

In his younger years, Gary enjoyed drag racing his 55 Chevy. As he grew older, his love of building cars did not diminish. In retirement, he began building beautiful wood furniture. He could also fix anything in the house — truly a jack of all trades.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret; his children, Yvette Dressler, Corey (Katie) Kappen, Matt (Jennifer) Kappen and Kristy (Bernard) Hoffman; and stepchildren, Dr. William (Lauren) Wagner and Jim (Ashley) Wagner. He was a pappy to 16 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Sherry (Randy) Wynn and her children and grandchildren.



He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, grandparents, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins, and one grandchild.

A celebration of life will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17, at Farrow-C.J. Lucas Funeral and Cremation Service, 240 W. Chestnut St., Shamokin, Lori Ann Campbell, Supervisor.

In lieu of flowers please send memorial contributions to the American Heart Association, 1704 Warren Ave., Williamsport, PA, 17701. To send condolences to the family please visit www.farrowfh.com