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.

33 Comments

Susan Laib

Jan 4 2019

Please accept my deepest sympathies. But know that Richard's legacy lives on in the current double reed students at Mansfield; I am forever thankful for the foundation he laid. Sincere condolences to Marjorie, Becky and Barbara, and all of Mr. Kemper's grieving former students. They are indeed his legacy.

David L Spinner

Condolences to the family of Mr. Kemper. I was a band student of his in Huntingburg, IN and in 1965 he selected me to play the bassoon. Unfortunately I wasn't very good, but he kept working with me. To this day, when I hear a bassoon in a song, I think of him. He was a good man. David Spinner

Glen A. Brumbach

Jan 5 2019

Please accept my sincere concolences on the passing of Richard Kemper. I have many fond memories of our encounters during out student - professor relationshp. Even thought I was a brass player he always had time for me in and out of class. I had him for instrumental methods and double reed class as well serving as my student teaching supervisor. He was a huge help to my career although my right arm still smarts a little from where he would fondly punch me when we would playfully trade musical barbs. Rest in peace Mr. Kemper knowing that you helped, influenced and inspired many students throughout your career.

MICHAEL A REMILLARD, M. Ed.

Dear Kemper family, I was truly shocked and saddened to hear of Richard's passing. I have very fond memories of our time together at MSC. As a tuba player, I was often teased by Richard and enjoyed the back and forth banter. A few memories include taking a woodwind pedagogy final in a Santa suit and getting an A on it. He was truly interested in the success of all MSC students and his sense of humor endeared him to all. I will never forget how much he encouraged me to look for a position in Pennsylvania, which I still love dearly. The three years spent as a graduate assistant at MSC taught me the research and perseverance skill to succeed in any endeavor, and Richard and Margie were a big part of that. If there is a position for a woodwind expert in heaven, I am certain that Richard has made "First Chair." Rest in Peace, my teacher, and may the angels welcome you into Paradise!

Rev. David McIntyre

Dear Marjorie and family ... please accept my sincere sympathy in the death of Richard ... my Junior Hi and Hi School Band Director in Huntingburg IN ... he put the Huntingburg HS instrumental music program on the map! Marching Band, Concert Band, Pep Band, Jass & Dance Band and numerous ensembles!! He was high energy, high patience and high expectations ... a good combination for a good program. Under his tutelage we all did well at regional and state competitions. At 73 I still consider HHS Music very important in the development of my life. Of course, you and Richard were also friends of our family (esp. my sister, Nancy) ... which meant a lot as well. Thank you for your devotion to him for these many, many years. He has left a fine legacy; thanks be to God for his life and positive contributions to the world. Sincerely, Rev. David McIntyre

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