ROCKFORD — Leon Gene Capes, Sr., 86, passed away Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at OSF St. Anthony’s Medical Center in Rockford, Illinois.  Leon was born on September 3, 1937 to Lorenzo and Mabel (Shelton) Capes in Flagg Center, IL.  He proudly served with the United States Army after graduating from the Rochelle Township High School. He worked for Chrysler for over 30 years.

Leon enjoyed snowmobiling, fishing, going to supper clubs and attending car and truck shows.  He especially enjoyed the time he spent with his family and grandchildren.  

Leon is survived by his seven children: Teresa (Homer) Barefield of Belvidere, IL, Diane Disch of Kirkland, IL, Leon Jr. (Sheryl) Capes of Kingston, IL, Daryl (Angela) Capes of Rockford, IL, David Capes of Galva, IL, Danny (Dawn) Capes of Belvidere, IL and Tim (Jackie) Capes of Arkansas; two brothers: Lorenzo Capes of Rockford, IL and Duane (Nancy) Capes of Rochelle, IL; three sisters: Norma Atkinson of Ashton, IL, Leona Tapp of Lindenwood, IL and Judy Zarr of Bethalto, IL; 18 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren.  

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his three wives: Eleanor (Schreiber) Capes, Lois (Steel) Capes and Norma (Fredin) Capes; five brothers: Orville, Lawrence, Ray, Emmett and Reuben “Pete” Capes and his sister, Laura Swick.

The visitation will be from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M., Thursday, September 21, 2023 at Faith Lutheran Church, 14206 E. Flagg Rd., Rochelle.  The funeral service will be held at 10:00 A.M., Friday, September 22 at Faith Lutheran Church with Pastor Joy Alsop officiating.  Burial will follow the service at White Rock Cemetery in Kings, IL.  Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.