Philip Michael Kappen, a devoted husband, father, and friend, passed away on Thursday, April 3, 2025. He left behind a lifetime of cherished memories, laughter, and love. He was born on October 16, 1954, to Robert and Rosetta (Dorsman) Kappen.

Visitation will be held at Miller Funeral Home Downtown Chapel on Sunday, April 6, 2025, from 3 to 5 p.m., with scriptures starting at 5 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, April 7, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary Church. Burial will be at St. Margaret Catholic Cemetery at 2 p.m. in Kimball, SD. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the National Arbor Day Association.

Phil was born in Galion, OH, and was a proud graduate of Howard High School, Class of 1972. He pursued his passion for the natural world at South Dakota State University (SDSU), where he earned a degree in Landscape Design in 1976, followed by a Master of Science degree in 1996. He met the love of his life, Diana L. Bickner, and they were married on June 29, 1985, at St. Mary Church. Together, they were blessed with two children, Kelly and Michael. Phil's deep knowledge and appreciation for the land guided his dedicated career. He spent 10 years with the Minnehaha County Conservation District before serving 20 years as an Urban Planner with the Minnehaha County Planning and Zoning Department.

Beyond his professional life, Phil's love of the arts and nature defined him. He was a passionate supporter of local theater, performing with Prairie Repertory Theater, the Sioux Falls Community Playhouse, and numerous other theaters in the Sioux Falls area. Music was another great joy in his life—he sang and played guitar in worship at St. Mary Church and lent his voice to many community choirs. His love for nature was unparalleled; he possessed an encyclopedic knowledge of South Dakota's trees and native plants. A true lifelong learner, he cultivated an extensive personal library of over 10,000 books and was always eager to share his wisdom with others.

Above all, Phil will be remembered for his wit and humor. His puns, jokes, and playful spirit brought endless joy to those who knew him, offering moments of laughter and groans in equal measure. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.

Grateful to have shared his life are his wife, Diana Kappen; children, Kelly (Vince) Kappen and Michael (Rachel) Kappen; brothers, Paul (Julie) Kappen and David (Mariolina) Gehring; mother-in-law, Maxine Bickner; uncle, Ron Dorsman; aunts, Jean Kroeger and Carol Brynjulson; and many family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, Milton Gehring, and father-in-law, Ralph Bickner.