Rachel Doris Kapper

Rachel Doris Kapper (Young) passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, at the age of 88 in Canal Fulton, Ohio, surrounded by her family with Elvis playing softly in the background.

Born on April 14, 1938, in Akron, Ohio, Rachel lived a life defined by resilience, laughter, devotion to family, and an unwavering love for the people fortunate enough to know her.

Rachel spent much of her childhood in the Akron area, though her family traveled extensively due to her father's career, living in places including West Virginia, Georgia, Texas, and Maryland. These experiences helped shape the independent nature that would remain with her throughout her life. She attended St. Mary's in Akron and carried the values of faith and family with her always.

Throughout her life, Rachel worked in a variety of roles, including real estate, American Greetings, and as a bus driver for Green Local Schools. No matter where she worked, she was known for her strong work ethic, quick wit, and ability to make those around her smile.

A devoted Catholic, Rachel was a longtime parishioner of St. Paul's Catholic Church in Firestone Park. Her faith was a steady foundation throughout her life and provided comfort and strength during both joyful and difficult times.

Rachel had a personality that could fill any room. She was generous, energetic, fiercely loyal, and never afraid to speak her mind. She was an advocate for the people she loved and possessed a remarkable resilience that carried her through life's challenges. Her vibrant red hair, contagious laugh, and amazing sense of humor made her unforgettable to everyone she met.

She found joy in life's simple pleasures: listening to Elvis Presley, watching Elvis movies, soaking up the sunshine, enjoying a good pizza, and making her favorite rounds through Marc's and Dollar Tree. Family members will forever remember her signature saying, "I'm in pretty good shape for the shape I'm in," a phrase that perfectly captured her humor and determination.

Above all else, Rachel cherished her family. Some of her happiest moments were spent surrounded by loved ones, especially during the last three years of her life when she was able to enjoy precious time creating memories, sharing stories, and laughing together. Her family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to Patrick, Kelli, and Gabrielle for the love, devotion, and care they provided throughout her final years and until the very end of her days.

Rachel is survived by her children, Thomas Kapper (Yvonne Kapper) and Patrick Kapper (Kelli Kapper); her grandchildren, Jordan Kapper (Rebecca Kapper), Dustin Kapper (Emily Kapper), Dillion Kapper, Kellen Kapper, McKenna Mahaney (Gabriel Mahaney), and Gabrielle McGill-Kapper; her great-grandchildren, Jordan Kapper Jr., Eleanor Kapper, Gideon Kapper, Vera Mahaney, and Connor Mahaney; her sister, Peggy Zaidman (Bruce Zaidman); her brothers, Konrad Young Jr. (Lisa Johnson Young) and Bill Young (Debbie Young); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Sharon Kapper; her infant son, Michael Kapper; her brother, Danny Young; her niece, Margie Firth McWeeney; and her parents, Konrad and Margaret Young.

Rachel's family takes comfort in knowing that she is reunited with those who went before her, especially her beloved daughter Sharon. While her absence leaves an immeasurable void, her laughter, strength, stubborn determination, and boundless love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A life well-lived is measured not in years, but in the love left behind. Rachel leaves behind a faith, humor, and perseverance that will be cherished for generations to come.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00AM on Monday, June 22 at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1580 Brown Street in Akron, where the family will receive friends beginning at 10:00AM. Interment at Holy Cross Cemetery will follow.