07/19/2007
Richard Ralph Kaster, age 67 of Des Moines and formerly of Knoxville, passed away on Thursday, July 19, 2007, at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines.
Richard was born in Knoxville, Iowa on October 22, 1939. He was the son of Russell L. and Edith (Porter) Kaster. Richard grew up in Knoxville and lived with his grandparents, Virris “V. F.” and Lue Ada Kaster. He was a 1957 graduate of Knoxville High School.
Richard moved to Des Moines in 1964 and continued living there until his death. He worked as a loan officer for many different loan companies, banks, and law firms until his retirement in 1999. Richard continued to work part-time as a driver for Armadillo Express until his death.
Richard attended Highland Park Christian Church in Des Moines. He enjoyed collecting antique automobiles, reading political biographies, and watching black & white movies.
Richard is survived by his daughter, Julie Estlick, and her husband, Mike of Fort Collins, Colorado; one son, Doug Kaster of Des Moines, Iowa; his former wife, Judith Kaster of Fountain, Colorado; one brother, Bob Kaster and his wife Meljean of Marana, Arizona; one sister, Barbara Smith and her husband, Al of Hendersonville, North Carolina; one aunt, Doris Dykstra of Knoxville; one uncle, Ralph Porter and his wife, Dorothy of Knoxville and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and twin brother, Russell V. Kaster
Graveside services were held on Tuesday, July 24, 2007, at Greenwood Cemetery in rural Marion County, Iowa with Pastor Neil Montz officiating. Casket bearers were Ted Dykstra, Michael Estlick, Ed Hansen, Kevin Heaberlin, Doug Kaster, and Rickey Kaster.
Williams Funeral Home handled the arrangements.