Jerry Lee Armstrong

Jerry Lee Armstrong born March 26, 1950 in Topeka Kansas; passed away March 29, 2025 in Topeka, Kansas .

Jerry leaves behind his beloved wife, Susie of 43 years, his children Nicole Niessen, Chris (Mindy)Armstrong, Kelly (Shawn) Menke, and Bryan Armstrong, and his seven grandchildren: Brayden, Chloe, Eli, Caleb, Cade, Amesley, and Brooklyn. He is also survived by his brothers, John Armstrong and Jim Armstrong. His three loyal Golden Retrievers—Champ, Duke, and Ace—will miss him just as deeply as we all will.

In 1987, Jerry took a leap of faith and purchased Capp's Bike Shop from Danny Caplan. Many thought he was crazy, but with his vision, passion, and unwavering dedication to every customer who walked through the door, he transformed a small “hole in the wall” into one of the largest and most beloved bike shops in Northeast Kansas. More than just a business, Jerry built a community—a family—bound by a shared love for cycling and adventure. Jerry was more than the heart and soul of Capp’s bike shop —he was a kind and compassionate man whose love for cycling, music, guitars, animals, and the outdoors was evident in everything he did.

Jerry’s passion for music and sports was as strong as his love for cycling. A 1968 graduate of Topeka High School, he played guitar in the band Pets and ran Sounds Great Stereo and Mother Earth Records. He gave back to his community in countless ways, sponsoring numerous softball and baseball teams for Southwest Youth Athletic Association. Heartland BMX racing and numerous cycling teams over the years. His generosity extended to Capper’s iCan Bike program, where he helped teach kids to ride without training wheels—just one of the many ways he made a lasting impact. His giving spirit continues today through Capp's Bike Shop.

Though Jerry is no longer with us, his legacy lives on in the shop and in the lives of those he inspired. We will continue to honor his memory by carrying forward his passion, kindness, and dedication to the cycling community he loved so much. Ride on, Jerry. You will be deeply missed.

Dove Cremations and Funerals will be assisting the family. Visitation will be held on April 16th at 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at Dove Southwest Chapel 3700 SW Wanamaker Rd Topeka KS 66610. Private inurnment will be held at a later date at Mount Hope Cemetery, Topeka Kansas.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Capper Foundation for the iCan Bike program online (click: This gift is in honor or memory of someone. Add Jerry Armstrong to the Full Name Field) or, physical mailing address is 3500 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604 or the Topeka Blues Society .