John Phillip Caplinger

John Phillip Caplinger, age 70, passed away on September 28th, 2024, at his home in Van Buren, Arkansas. Born October 4th, 1953, in Columbus, Ohio, he was a beloved son of Alfred Berlin And Sadetta (Hooser) Caplinger. John was a proud veteran of the United States Army. He Joined in 1978 and was honorably discharged in 1982 at the rank of Sergeant. In the midst of his service, John married the love of his life, Leta Jo Hall, on May 13, 1979. John was always interested in new and future technology, including; electronics, robotics, space, and science. He made his interests a career. He earned a place as a National Merit Finalist and received his Bachelors degree in Computer Programming at the University of Arkansas in Little Rock. John was a member of Pleasent Valley Church of Christ. In his free time he enjoyed reading, writing, and spending time with his beloved dogs. John was President for life of the River Valley writers. He was the Ultimate AV guy who grew up to be the ultimate computer guy. John will be remembered as an intelligent, kind, capable man who was an amazing conversationalist and a knight in shining space armour to his beloved wife and dogs. John's presence will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

John Caplinger is survived by his beloved wife Leta Jo (Hall) Caplinger; two brothers, James Caplinger and spouse Amanda and Gary Caplinger and spouse Lois;  His father and mother in law, Larry and Lou Hall, two sisters in law, Helene Dockery and spouse Tom and Katrina Zitnik and spouse Jim; four nephews, Jimmy Caplinger, Will Dockery, Tad Dockery, and Adam Zitnik; three nieces, April Caplinger, JoAnna Kirk, and Elizabeth DeBard; three cousins Theresa Hooser, Jerry Hooser, and April Hooser, his close friends, Keith Brenton, Dale Braswell, and Mary Sangster; several great-nephews and great-nieces; and his loyal dogs, Shadow and Lucky. John is preceded in passing by his parents, Alfred Berlin and Sadetta (Hooser) Caplinger and one sister Shirley (Caplinger) West.

In Lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Lake Point Recovery and Wellness, located at 65 Arvac lane, Russellville, Arkansas. There will be a Memorial service held at 11am on Saturday October 5th, 2024 at Lewis Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith, Arkansas. All services are under the thoughtful direction of Lewis Funeral Chapel. 

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