Mervin "Sonny" Kasper

Mervin "Sonny" Kasper lived a life rich in family and friends. A man who led with his heart, Sonny welcomed each day as a gift and gave all he could in service of others. Sonny worked hard to provide for his loved ones and loved a good adventure. Whether traveling the country or frequenting a local bingo hall, Sonny enjoyed sharing the good company of family and friends. A loving brother, father, uncle, and friend, Sonny will long be remembered and ever so missed.

As the war in Europe continued to dominate world affairs in 1941, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill addressed the joint session of Congress, asking for help in the form of Arms. The US continued to focus on the growing economy and leaving the Great Depression behind. People flocked to the theaters to see "Citizen Kane" and "Dumbo," movies that continue to stand the test of time. And, after many generations of parents deciding what teenagers wore, a new revolution of fashion-conscious teenagers became the norm. The conveniences of drive-in movies and fast food were also growing in popularity. During these exciting times, Mervin Sr. and June Kasper welcomed their son Mervin to their family on April 3rd in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

The second of eleven children, Sonny grew up in an active home on the city's northwest side. He and his siblings, John, Matthew, Bessie, Alice, Jenete, Birtha, Osmon, Charlotte, Diana, and Florence, spent much time outdoors with the neighbor kids. Sonny attended Harrison Park Elementary School until the second grade when his family moved to Sault Saint Marie. His stepfather worked in the sawmill, and Sonny and his brothers often played ball around the area. The boys enjoyed cutting grass, collecting newspapers, and shoveling snow for neighbors to earn extra money.

Three years later, the family moved to Marne, Michigan, then to Lowell, before finally settling back in Northwest Grand Rapids. Sonny only completed the eighth grade due to contracting double pneumonia when he was a child and not being able to complete his basic education, but that never stopped him from working hard to provide for himself and his loved ones.

Over the years, Sonny worked a variety of jobs, including working for a boat company in Holland, Michigan, and working at Stow and Davis. In time, Sonny's brother Osmon, who worked at Steelcase, got him a job at the company. Many years later, Sonny retired from Steelcase.

Sonny's grandmother lived on Lake Michigan Drive, which provided the opportunity for Sonny to meet her neighbor's daughter, Nancy. The two began dating and married in 1960. Though their 16-year marriage ended in divorce, it blessed them with seven children to their family. Jennie, Mark, Joseph, Patty, Tammy, Bruce, and Ken were Sonny's pride and joy, and he worked hard to provide for them. The family lived in Comstock Park and a few other places near Grand Rapids. Sonny worked long hours, but when he was home, he never hesitated to help around the house. He enjoyed cooking, often making his favorite meal, boiled liver. Meatloaf was another favorite.

Sonny had many interests, including camping, playing bingo, and bowling. Sonny made his home on Godfrey Ave. in Southwest Grand Rapids and enjoyed camping and traveling. He enjoyed memorable trips to Niagra Falls, Texas, and Colorado and traveling all over in his motorhome. Closer to home, he enjoyed playing bingo at different bingo halls and spending time at the Knights of Columbus. For many years, Sonny bowled on a Sunday league and a league for Steelcase. Soaring Eagle and Gun Lake were his favorite casinos, and he was always up for a game of cribbage.

Generous and kind, Sonny enjoyed spending time in the good company of his many friends, and was always available to help others. He was a good uncle, lending his support whenever and however he could, especially with rides, moves, and handyman jobs.

As we celebrate Sonny's life, may we find comfort in our many treasured memories of the fine man we were so blessed to know. May we also find comfort in carrying his legacy of generosity and kindness forward in our own lives.

Mervin J. Kasper Jr. "Sonny," passed away with his family by his side on January 13, 2024. Sonny is preceded in death by his parents, brothers, and sisters, as well as his son, Kenneth Kasper. Sonny is survived by his children Jennie Larabel, Mark Kasper, Joseph Kasper, Patty Himebaugh, Tammy Kasper, and Bruce Kasper. Sonny leaves behind his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings Osmon Kasper, Charlotte Bolger, Diana Roe, Florence Loonsfoot, and many nieces and nephews.

A service to remember Sonny will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home, Vans-Strien Creston Chapel, 1833 Plainfield NE Grand Rapids MI, 49505. Mervin's family will meet with friends on Friday, January 19, 2024, from 6 – 8 pm at the funeral home and an hour prior to the funeral. Memorial contributions in Sonny's honor may be given to the American Cancer Society. To leave a memory, write a message, or sign the guest book, please visit www.heritagelifestory.com.