My very dear friend and spiritual father Jerry Capel died Wednesday July 23, 2025.
The challenge of eulogizing someone so deeply cherished is immense. It’s about more than just recounting memories; it’s about conveying the impact they had on your life. When you’ve shared so much—from breaking bread to learning, crying, arguing, and loving—their essence becomes intertwined with your own. Capturing that depth in words feels almost impossible, yet the desire to honor their memory compels us to try.
Jerry was a mentor, a very dear friend, in his later years a traveling buddy, and in so many ways, a father figure. Whenever we were out, he’d introduce me as his son, a gesture that always filled me with pride. Jerry was all of this and more to me.
I first met Jerry when I was just a kid. He and his family had set up shop in our town’s mall for the Christmas season, selling what he called “crystal glass art.” I remember standing there for hours, mesmerized. I’m sure he engaged me in conversation, but all I can recall is being completely enchanted by the torch melting the glass. Like Mickey Mouse in The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, I was enthralled by this Master Glassblower and wished I could be him, or at least his apprentice.
Many years passed before our paths crossed again, strangely enough, in that very same mall. This time, though, I was an adult, tired of my job, and searching for something more. He’d set up another kiosk for the Christmas season, right in front of the jewelry store where I worked. As soon as he started blowing glass, I was transported back. I knew in that instant, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that this was what I wanted to do for a career. After watching him for a while, I brazenly and unapologetically asked if he’d teach me. He simply smiled and said, “Of course I will!” Little did I know, he wouldn’t just teach me the art of lampwork glassblowing; he’d teach me so, so much more over the course of my life.
My friend for over 40 years, Jerry was, without a doubt, one of the most influential people in my life. He taught me more than just a career, he taught me how to live. I’ll miss him every moment of every day until I see him again in glory. Jerry was truly one of a kind, a genuine gift from God. I love ya, Jerry!
Folks, none of us own our next breath so live the life you want now because none of us are guaranteed a tomorrow. Do what you love and love what you do. Life’s too short to do otherwise. Love God, love one another, and live the best life you can!
Love,
+B
