Born: March 19, 1959, Caguas, Puerto Rico
Died: August 22, 2013
Fernando “Papo” Capeles, Sr. was born on March 19, 1959, in Caguas, Puerto Rico. Known for his unwavering dedication and vibrant spirit, Fernando’s life reflected his deep commitment to his country and family.
As a U.S. Marine and the Head Security Officer at NBC Stamford, Fernando’s career was marked by integrity and leadership. His contributions to his community and his role in ensuring safety were deeply respected.
Fernando’s legacy lives on through his beloved wife, Gloria Patricia Capeles; his children, Jessica, Christina, Sylvia, Ana Maria Duque, and Fernando Capeles, Jr.; his sister, Carmen; and his brothers, Tyrone, Alex Carlos, and Pedro, Jr. He is also remembered fondly by his six grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday, August 27, 2013, at Baker-Isaac Funeral Chapel, 985 Stratford Ave, Bridgeport, CT. Family and friends gathered to honor Fernando’s memory from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., with the service beginning at 7 p.m. His final interment took place at the Veterans Cemetery, Bow Lane, Middletown, CT, on Wednesday, August 28, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. Arrangements were entrusted to Baker Funeral Services, 84 So. Main Street, Norwalk, CT.
Fernando Capeles’s life, marked by his service and dedication, will always be celebrated, especially on the anniversary of his birth. His memory remains a testament to his character and the impact he made on those around him.
I am not a veteran. I am a member of the Civil Air Patrol, the United States Air Force Auxiliary. But in 1991, personal loss brought me to a place I never left.
Over two decades later, that loss led me to the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut, where I took on the coordination of Wreaths Across America — which grew into the largest and fastest growing veterans program in the state. I didn’t do it for recognition. I did it for them.
In 2016 I founded the Connecticut Veterans Bulletin. Not because I served, but because I believe those who did deserve to be honored, connected, and kept alive.
Twenty-two veterans die by suicide every day. I knew about that number before it became a hashtag. I knew it personally, long before anyone was talking about it.
This publication exists because that number is unacceptable. Because every veteran in Connecticut deserves to know someone gives a damn.
That someone is me.
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