Erik Edward Caples

Erik “MacGuyver” Caples, 49, of Farmington, passed away Wednesday, October 16, 2024, peacefully at his home with his wife by his side. He was born on Tuesday, May 20, 1975, in St. Louis.  He was preceded in death by his dad, Robert “Bob” Caples.

Erik's life was marked by selflessness and dedication. After working on his family's hog farm during his school years, he enlisted in the U.S. Army from 2001 to 2008, serving courageously as an artilleryman with the 101st Airborne and the Screaming Eagles, including deployment to Iraq. Upon his discharge, Erik pursued a career in construction as a welder and partook in various other jobs. He was an active member of the Leadington VFW Post #5741 and the Patriot Guard Riders, embodying a true spirit of service to his community and fellow veterans. A Christian at heart, Erik had a fervent commitment to guiding others in their faith journey, always leading by example and extending a helping hand.

 Outside of his professional and volunteer endeavors, Erik had a passion for gaming, particularly through his involvement with the non-profit Til Valhalla Project. He and his wife dedicated their time to a backpack ministry aiding homeless veterans and those in need, showcasing their boundless compassion and empathy for others. Erik also found joy in restoring old motorcycles and trucks, demonstrating his skilled hands and love for classic machinery.

 Erik is survived by his loving wife of 13 years, Michele “Shell” Rae (Yeako) Caples; mom, Cindy Caples; father, John Meyer; children, Melanie “Lanie” (Caleb) Gerrish, Marissa Caples, Emily (Denver) Stone, Josie Caples; four grandsons, Weston, Elijah, Jameson, Noah; siblings, Kelly Caples, Kristen (David) Schobey, Gayla (Steve) Peters, Erica (Chris) McMillin, Kelly Nix, Scott Meyer; nieces and nephews, Alison, Drew, Lane, Lexi, Landon; in-laws, Martha & Jim Yeako; sister-in-law, Patricia Bachman (Jim) and their children Ryan & Rachael along with several great nieces, great nephews, friends and family. 

 Visitation will be held at C.Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Desloge on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, from 9:00 AM until the service time of 10:00 AM with Pastor Ryan Sutton officiating. Interment will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis at 12:30 PM with full military honors. Memorials may be directed to Harvard Brain Bank or National Organization for Rare Disorders – NORD.