Obituary of Benjamin Max Cappel

Benjamin Max “Ben” Cappel, age 34, passed away on Saturday, May 9, 2026 after a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer.

Ben was raised in East Brunswick, NJ, and also called Washington D.C. and Chicago home during his lifetime. He was predeceased by his beloved mother, Elizabeth Andrews Cappel.

Ben is survived by his father, Kenneth Cappel; his three wonderful sisters, Viktoria, Elana, and Isabelle; his sister-in-law, Kelsey Cappel; and his precious nieces and nephew, Riley, Nathan, and Lucy, who brought him endless joy.

After graduating from East Brunswick High School, Ben received his bachelor’s degree in political science from Rutgers University. He was a devoted athlete and treasured the early mornings spent with his teammates on the Rutgers Crew Team. Following in his father’s footsteps, Ben earned his law degree from Seton Hall University.

Ben was a respected attorney and partner at AddyHart LLC. Ben was formerly Sr. Counsel to the YMCA of the USA in Chicago. He practiced IP law as an associate at Sughrue Mion PLLC. Ben’s experience also included litigating trademark and copyright disputes at the USPTO’s Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) and litigating in the U.S. District Courts. Ben truly enjoyed his work and made his family incredibly proud.

Beyond his career, Ben was a kind, generous, caring person, known well for his beautiful smile and gentle soul. He cared deeply for animals and dearly loved his cat, Stuffy, and dogs Tracy and Penny.

Ben’s favorite hobby was sports cars. Whether he was driving, admiring, or shopping for them, they always brought him excitement and joy. He was a member of Fast Lane Drive in Chicago, and looked forward to getting together with his friends and cousin, Katie Bowden, for a drive.

Ben will be deeply missed by many. May his memory be a blessing.

The funeral will be held at 11a.m. on Sunday, May 17, at Dangler Funeral Home in Morris Plains.

In honor of Ben, donations may be made to Animal Alliance in Lambertville, NJ, and Tabby’s Place in Ringoes, NJ.