Michael W. Capelety

Michael W. Capelety, 66, of Grafton, Ohio, died unexpectedly at home Wednesday, December 11, 2024.  He was born August 25, 1958 in Elyria, Ohio. He was a 1977 graduate of Elyria High School, where he met his beloved wife, Patti Capelety.  From 1977-1981, he proudly served with the US Navy and specialized in avionics aboard the USS Ranger in San Diego.  Soon after the Navy, Michael earned an Associate Degree in electrical/electronics engineering technology from Lorain County Community College, which was a perfect fit for his natural talent – fixing and tinkering with things.  Mike was employed at NASA Glenn Research Center for 40 years, from where he retired as a Quality Assurance Specialist for Space Flight Hardware.  During his time at NASA GRC, Mike contributed to the Artemis program, the Space Shuttle program, the International Space Station, and microgravity research aboard the KC 135, receiving numerous awards for his efforts in ensuring the safety of the hardware used in the mission. After retiring, he served as a contractor for Bastion Technologies for 5 years. 

Mike was well-known for his infectious laugh, quick-wit, and great sense of humor. He enjoyed bow hunting, deer hunting, riding ATVs, walking in the woods, sipping a good cup of coffee, making a fire, and spending time with his family, friends, and his dogs (Moo and Lucky). Mike especially loved his lifelong friends from Elyria High School. He was also a member of Elyria Elks Lodge #465 and West Branch.

Mike is survived by his wife of 38 years, Patti Jo Capelety (nee Gibbons); mother, Iris Capelety (nee Schumaker); son, Nicholas (Mary) Capelety of Bay Village; daughter, Angela (Andrew) Mucha of Olmsted Township; granddaughter, Cora; aunt, Imogene Hambrick and numerous cousins, whom he loved greatly.

He was preceded in death by his father, Mike Capelety in 2007 and a baby sister.

Family and friends will be received on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 12:00 PM with a service to follow at 2:00 PM at Dicken Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 323 Middle Avenue, Elyria, with Deacon Bob Lester officiating.  Amherst Veterans Military Honor Guard will present military honors.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation.

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