Richard Floyd Kasper, US Navy Veteran, age 74, beloved husband of Rowena Q. Kasper; loving son of the late Floyd and Eva Kasper; fond uncle to many nieces and nephews; cherished friend to many.

Comrade Richard Kasper entered into the service of our country on October 17, 1963 to defend, and yes, if need be to die for his country and flag.  Comrade Richard F. Kasper served in the United States Navy on foreign lands in the Pacific Theater on board the USS Enterprise, the first nuclear aircraft carrier as an Electrician's Mate third class during the Vietnam War. Rick Kasper earned the following medals: the Vietnam Service Medal (VSM), the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal (RVCM), and the National Defense Service Medal (NDSM).  Rick Kasper served over 3 years and 3 months of foreign sea duty on the USS Enterprise. Comrade Rick Kasper was honorably discharged from the US Navy on October 6, 1967 and completed his inactive reserve obligation on October 16, 1969. Comrade Rick Kasper served his country with honor and distinction. Comrade Rick Kasper was a life member of VFW Post 3579 and a member of the Board of Directors. He often volunteered to drive our service officers to deliver Christmas gifts to the Edward Hines Jr. Hospital in his 12 passenger Ford van.

He has completed his final mission to his country and flag, and by the grace of God, he has departed from our ranks…Your loved one is now in God's care and may you feel that he is at rest… I am quite sure there have been many times in his life, when in his prayers he said "Thanks God" for the health, strength, and courage, you have given me, so that I was able to defend the flag of my beloved country, and for my family and friends.

!!!Yes!!! That is what this flag that is placed near him represents, a true comrade and a true American, may you always love and cherish his flag, which you will receive from our grateful United States Government.  Now our faithful service officers will present our "Buddy Poppy" and will read and present our "VFW Certificate of Remembrance".

Visitation Thursday, November 7, from 4 to 9 pm; Funeral service 7 pm at Kolbus-John V. May Funeral Home, 6857 W. Higgins Ave., Chicago. Inurnment everyone to meet Wednesday, November 13, 11:30 am at Abraham Lincoln Cemetery,  20953 W. Hoff Rd., Elwood. For more information please call 773-774-3232.