Cyril 'Cy' R. Kapinus, 78, of Centre Hall, died unexpectedly, Monday, July 19, 2010, while working in State College.
He was born July 5, 1932 in Montdale, PA, a son of the late Stephen and Anna Simchak Kapinus.
On July 12, 1952, he married Joan Eileen Nicholson Kapinus who survives at home.
Cy served with the U.S. Army during the Korean War from 1953 to 1955. He was on the Nike Staff working with Rocket Guidance Systems at White Sands Proving Grounds in New Mexico. Following his military service, he attended Keystone Junior College under the GI Bill, earning an Associate In Arts Degree, then went on to Penn State to earn a B.S. in Business Administration with a minor in Accounting, graduating in 1959.
His work experience included serving as an engineer for HRB Singer of State College, working on the Gemini and Mercury Space Projects. Later, Mr. Kapinus worked at Penn State University in the financial offices of the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences.
Scouting played an important role in his life. He was a member of the Order of the Arrow and served as treasurer of the local Boy Scout Troop for many years. Community contributions included serving as a charter member of the Penns Valley Area Medical Center Board, serving on the Penns Valley School Board, and he was a charter member of the People's Choice Festival of the Arts. He was a member of Toastmasters International for more than 36 years, having served as Area Governor. He was a loyal member of the Penn State Alumni Association and attended New Hope Lutheran Church in Spring Mills.
In addition to his activities within the community, Mr. Kapinus was a gifted wood-worker. He enjoyed automotive mechanics, building cabinetry, and building his residence. He also helped his children build and remodel their houses.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his three sons, Robert C. Kapinus and his wife Kathy of Centre Hall, Edward T. Kapinus and his wife Anne of Spring Mills, and Thomas S. Kapinus and his wife Michele of Reedsville; seven grandchildren, Sarah Fisher and her husband Jeremy, Nick Kapinus and his wife Kayla, Jake, Audrie, Hanna, Cyril Josef, and Sam Kapinus; and two great-grandchildren, Sophia and Jeremiah. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were an enormously important part of his life, and spending time with them was one of his greatest joys. Also surviving is one sister, Eleanor Ratay, and one brother, Bernard Kapinus and his wife Jane.
A memorial service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 22, 2010, at New Hope Lutheran Church, 119 Cobblestone Court, just off Route 45 at Spring Mills, with the Reverend Gerald Krum officiating. Friends will be received in the fellowship hall of the church immediately following the memorial service, from approximately 3:45 p.m. until all have had time to share with the family. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to New Hope Lutheran Church, 119 Cobblestone Court, Spring Mills, PA 16875.
A guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com.