Linda Kappel

Linda Kay (Munkvold) Kappel, age 84, of Yankton, passed away peacefully at Avera Sacred Heart Hospital on Friday, November 21, 2025. A private memorial gathering is planned for immediate family at a later date. No other services will be held. Online condolences may be sent at www.okfhc.com. Opsahl-Kostel Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Linda Munkvold was born to Murel and Mildred Munkvold at home in Viborg, SD, on October 9, 1941. She joined siblings Betty, Harland (Toby), and Marlys, and they would all later be joined by baby sister, Shelley. Linda attended Yankton Public Schools until 1957 when the family moved to Downey, CA. She graduated from Earl Warren High School in 1959.

From her union with Sam Sexton came daughter, Tamara, who then became a wonderful big sister to Kris, Kimberly, and Kari who were born into her marriage with Ernie Kappel. Linda worked as a secretary for Beneficial Insurance in California, followed by Pekas Insurance in Lesterville, South Dakota, each for ten years. She spent two years working for Scotland Jr/Sr High as a study hall supervisor. When she would run into former students, they would always tell her, “You were strict but fair and kind.” Her most fulfilling work was as a banquet manager and hostess for Dave’s at the Best Western and JoDean’s Steakhouse and Lounge. She did this work for twenty-two years until the pandemic forced her retirement at the age of 79. Her greatest joy was found in watching and cheering for her children and grandchildren at horse shows, concerts, dance recitals, and athletic events.

Linda is survived by her daughters Tammy (Kenny) Schanche of Lesterville, Kim (Scott) Olson of Mission Hill, and Kari (James) Cimburek of Yankton, grandchildren Brad (Nicole) Schanche of Davidsonville, MD, Kara (Erik) Young of Yankton, Sophie (Cully) Olson of Aberdeen, Michael (Danielle) Drotzmann of Yankton, and bonus granddaughter Heidi (Nolan) Randolph of Sioux Falls, ten great-grandchildren, and dear sister, Shelley (Michael) Stead. Also left to cherish her memory are in-laws, outlaws, and her extended family and friends at Angelhaus East.

In lieu of flowers or memorials to family, please consider a donation to Valiant Living, Madison, SD, or the Alzheimer’s Foundation (alz.org), or a charity of your choice.