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Richard Kemper

  • On January 3, 2019
  • 33 Comments

Richard Kemper, age 88 of Mt. Lebanon, PA formerly of Mansfield, PA passed away on January 2, 2019. Beloved husband for 65 years to Marjorie, loving father of Rebecca (Blase) Scarnati of Flagstaff, AZ and Barbara (Jim) Hois of Mt. Lebanon, PA, proud grandfather of Elizabeth Scarnati, and Jeremy, Jason and Kelly Hois.

Born in Evansville, IN, he graduated from University of Evansville, served in the Army as bassoonist with the US Army Band and 7th Army Symphony and taught instrumental music in Dubois County, IN. He was the oboe and bassoon professor at Mansfield State College (University) for 24 years while performing with the Corning, Elmira, and Williamsport Orchestras. He is beloved as a mentor to many students. As a homeowner at Chautauqua Institution, it was his summer home. family/friends gathering place, and chamber music venue for 3 decades.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 5, 2019 at 1 PM at Southminster Presbyterian Church, 799 Washington Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15228. Arrangements have been entrusted to Pittsburgh Cremation and Funeral Care, 3287 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317, (724) 260-5546.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Richard Kemper/Kurt Hider Double Reed Scholarship at Mansfield Foundation, 71 S. Main, Mansfield, PA 16933, give.mansfieldfoundation.org.

Please view and sign the family’s online guestbook at www.pittsburghcremation.com.

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33 Comments

Christopher Graves
Mr. Kemper was an inspiration to all music students who were fortunate enough to know him. He was hilarious to all of us in his Woodwind I class and even funnier as the conductor of “flunky band.” He was a bright light. Thank you Mr. Kemper.
Anni Parsons Martyka
Mr. Kemper has been in my thoughts throughout the years as one of the finest teachers I have known. From 1983 -85 he encouraged me to be the best oboist I could be. He was truly a wonderful musician and a wonderful man. Prayers to all in your family.
Ruth Haswell Sidorowicz
Marjorie, I was very saddened to learn of Richard's passing from Tom Weirbowski . I often think of those wonderful Sundays when we used to drive from Ithaca to Corning for the concerts and dinners with all our Mansfield friends - good, good memories. Can you imagine the concerts that must now be going on with Richard and Alex - what rejoicing! My thoughts are with you and your children and grandchildren. With love, Ruth Sidorowicz
Denise Anderson Stanbrook
Barb, so sorry to hear of your beloved father’s passing. He was much loved . My thoughts and prayers are with your family
Jill Novak Wood
Barb and family I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your father. I always think of you and your family when I drive past the house on St James Street. ❤️
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