On March 22, George Kappler died after a long illness. Kappler is best known in the fire service for starting and running Kappler Inc, a well-known line of hazmat and protective suits.
After serving in the U.S. Army, Kappler went to work for Monsanto and helped with his father-in-law’s screw company. But on April 1, 1976 he founded Kappler Development Company. With just six sewing machines and eight employees, he began as a contract manufacturer sewing disposable coveralls made of DuPont Tyvek fabric.
From there Kappler grew to become a global leader in protective fabrics and garments for hazmat response and other dangerous work. With almost 30 successful patents, today’s Kappler, Inc. is recognized as the innovator that redefined protective clothing worldwide.
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According to Kappler’s obituary, “he found great satisfaction and meaning in his work and knowing he was helping people who were risking their lives for others. He also loved giving back to the community, with many local causes (he) quietly supported.
“George found joy with the simple things and surrounding himself with nature. Once, a customer visiting Kappler complimented the gardener hard at work on the company grounds, noting that he really seemed to care about the facilities. The customer was surprised when the ‘gardener’ turned out to be the owner of the company.”
You can learn how to make charitable gifts in his name and read George Kappler’s full obituary here.
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