John Peter Kappas

John Peter Kappas, age 85, passed away peacefully on November 12th , 2024. He was born on June 5th, 1939, in Dayton, KY to the late Peter and Anastasia Kappas. John graduated Dixie Heights High School in 1957 where he excelled as a star athlete in football, earning all-state and all -American status as a tight end. He went on to play football for Xavier University and, upon graduation, was offered positions with both the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburg Steelers. But instead of professional sports, John chose to enter his father’s business, Madison Office Products. John and his brother Jim continued the last family-owned office supply store until their mutual retirement in 2007. Aside from being an active Rotarian and past president of the organization, John also served as a city councilman for Park Hills and a proud member of both the local Selective Service Draft Board and the NKY coin club. In 2003, he was inducted into the Northern Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame. He was devoted to his wife of 63 years, Vivian, who he lovingly cared for during her final days. He was a tremendous father to his two sons, Brett and Scott, serving as baseball coach, boy scout leader and all-around great example of what it means to be a man. Both sons fondly remember the great times they had with Dad, camping, shooting and RVing. John continued to work at his son’s office, answering phones and providing fatherly advice on matters of business, until shortly before his death. He is survived by his sons Scott Kappas (Jennifer) and Brett Kappas. He is also survived by his grandchildren Jay Custer, Caroline Reagan and Charlotte LeMay; and his sister Mary Lucas (Ken) and his brother-in-law Gerald Toner (Carol). He was preceded in death by his loving wife Vivian (Toner) Kappas and his brother Jim Kappas. Visitation will be on Friday, November 22 nd , 2024 from 10-12pm at Middendorf Funeral Home, 3312 Madison Pike, Ft. Wright, KY 41017. Funeral service begins at 12pm following the visitation. Interment will be at Highland Cemetery.