Gary Capps

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Gary Dale Capps, of Alba, MO, passed away at Aspire Senior Living in Carthage, Mo. after a courageous battle with cancer at the age of 71 on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.

Gary was born February 12, 1955, to Virgal and Mary Kathryn Capps at Mother Cabrini Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. Raised in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, Gary graduated from Glenbard West High School in 1973, where he played football and developed a lifelong passion for the sport and his favorite team “Da Bears.”

In 1975, Gary enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving honorably as a 3rd Class Petty Officer and Mess Specialist. During his service in the Philippines, he met his first wife, Evelyn “Joni” Zerda. After his overseas service they returned to Illinois and were blessed with two sons, William and Mark.

On May 29, 1993, Gary married Sheila Price in Naperville, Illinois. After 20 years of service, Gary retired from Charles Equipment Company and relocated to Alba, Missouri, where he fulfilled a longtime dream with Sheila by opening La Bella Notte, an Italian restaurant, which led to many future endeavors in the hospitality industry over 20 years. Gary served his community throughout his life as an active member of the Wheaton Jaycees and through his association with the VFW and American Legion.

Gary loved his family, friends and children more than life itself. He will be remembered for his bigger than life heart and laughter. When asked, Gary shared that when he looked back, he had a good life, and he was proud of the life he lived.

Gary is survived by his sons, William (Melissa) Capps of Illinois, Mark Capps of Illinois and Greg (Randi) Morton of Missouri; his daughter, Sarah (Jeffrey) Norman of Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Alexea Norman of England and Liam Norman of Pennsylvania; sisters, Deann Berg of Florida and Vickie (Johnny) Lester of North Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sheila; parents, Virgal and Billie Capps, Mary Kathryn and William Berg; brothers, Jerry Don Capps, Larry David Capps, and Paul Jon Berg; sisters, Brenda Hoffman and Claudette Capps; and stepbrothers, Terry Pittman and Billy Pittman.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the VFW Post 2590 in Carthage, in care of the funeral home.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City. Please visit the tribute page to share photos and memories of Gary.