Donald R. Kapper

Donald R. Kapper, 78, of Dover passed away at his home on Friday, February 14, 2025

Don enjoyed a lengthy and fulfilling career as an Equine Nutritionist, culminating in his retirement in 2015 from Progressive Nutrition after contributing many years of service. Prior to his time there, he devoted 24 years to his work at Buckeye Feed Mills. His deep knowledge and love for horses shaped his professional journey, making him an influential figure in the field of equine nutrition for four decades. He was a skilled Farrier and Blacksmith, further showcasing his hands-on expertise and commitment to the equine community. Don was also a life-member, and served on the board of the American Hanoverian Society. Don’s passion for breeding Hanoverian horses led him to own Outer Banks Farm in Beach City

A graduate of Tuslaw High School in 1964, Don continued his education at The Ohio State University, where he became a life member of the OSU Alumni Association. Don proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he earned the prestigious Bronze Star for his bravery and service to his country. 

Don was a devoted husband to his wife of 58 years, Dee Biddle Kapper, whom he married on April 16, 1966. He was a father to his son, Shawn (Missy) Kapper of Dover, a grandfather to Carolina and Grady Kapper; a brother to Bill (Judy) Kapper of Hartville, Bob Kapper of Orrville, LaVerna Reinoehl of Columbus, Joyce Egan of Massillon; a brother-in-law to Ken Schar of Sterling and Terry (Pat) Biddle of Canton. 

Cremation has been entrusted to the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover. A service celebrating Don's life will be held on Saturday, March 1st starting at 11:00 am in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Dover. The family will be greeting friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 10:00 to 11:00 am. Following the service, a luncheon will be held at the Toland-Herzig Monarch Center.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ohio’s Hospice Truman House at 716 Commercial Ave SW, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663, American Hanoverian Foundation at 4047 Iron Works Parkway, Suite 103, Lexington, Kentucky 40511 or to Maryland Therapeutic Riding at 1141 Sunrise Beach Rd, Crownsville, MD 21032.