Dean Kapenga, a longstanding Allegan County Commissioner and former deputy of the county's Sheriff's Office, passed away at the age of 69 after suffering a stroke. His death on Monday was confirmed by fellow commissioner and board chair, Jim Storey. Kapenga, who had dedicated 50 years of his life to the service of Allegan County, was surrounded by his loved ones at the time of his passing at U-M Health West hospital, as Wilcox Newspapers reported.
Storey, shared his sentiments about Kapenga's irreplaceable role in the community, "There's a legendary figure called Paul Bunyan. Those are the kind of shoes that we're looking at," he said, according to FOX 17. In his tribute to Kapenga, Storey highlighted his colleague's ability to bring out the best in people, and his impact on the county's growth, which saw an 8 percent increase from 2010–2020, a period when Kapenga played a vital part.
Beginning his service as a law enforcement officer, Kapenga then transitioned into politics, where he continuously served as commissioner since being first elected in 2007, running unopposed in the upcoming November general election, as Wilcox Newspapers noted. His numerous posts included chairmanship of Allegan's Community Action Board and the county's 911 Emergency Services Board, and a member of the Commission on Aging.
A part of the community beyond his official duties, Kapenga was also known for his strong faith and integrity. "As a matter of fact, when he passed away, he and his wife had been scheduled to leave the day before to go on a mission trip to Guatemala to help build homes down there," Storey told FOX 17. Remembered for his unselfishness, optimism, and commitment, the community mourns the loss of a person who had become a mentor to many, including Allegan County Sheriff Frank Baker. "Dean was always someone who, being a person of faith, had empathy and compassion for victims. I always admired that in him," Baker said in a Holland Sentinel report.
The funeral arrangements for the late commissioner include a visitation at Central Wesleyan Church with the final service to be held afterward. Kapenga leaves behind his wife, four children, and 17 grandchildren as per family statements to FOX 17. The Allegan County Board must now appoint a successor within 30 days, a decision they will approach after a period of mourning for a man described by many as more than a public servant but a pillar of the community.
