Gerald A. Casper

Gerald Allen Casper, 82, of South Bend, IN, after being stricken by the fungal infection "Valley Fever" and fighting it bravely for 8 months, passed peacefully at his beloved River House Thursday, April 2, 2015. He was born at home in Roseland, IN, on July 24, 1932. He was a lifelong resident of Clay Township and graduated from Washington Clay High School. He then served honorably in the United States Navy. He married his beloved Marilyn Enfield at Gospel Center Church in River Park on Oct 5th, 1957. Jerry earned degrees from both Bethel College and IU Bloomington. He was a teacher in the South Bend Community School Corporation, serving at Stuckey, Darden, Eggleston, Clay Middle and Edison Schools. He was both loved by the students who got to know him and feared by the ones who only heard stories of the paddle hanging on his wall. He had a natural ability to connect with students across the spectrum. At various points he taught groups of the most talented students as well as some of the most challenged and received stellar reviews throughout, including a Teacher of the Year Award in 1985. Many students and fellow teachers remained in contact with him throughout the years. Since retirement, Jerry enjoyed traveling, being an amateur American Picker, and spending time at his homes away from home including Jellystone Campground in North Webster, IN, the river neighborhood of Osceola, IN, and Towerpoint Estates in Mesa, AZ. He could talk to anyone and make friends wherever he went, but more than anything, Jerry enjoyed spending time with his family who will miss his encouragement, love, and hugs. Jerry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilyn, his parents, Alvin and Deborah Casper, and his brother, Robert Casper, all of South Bend, IN. Jerry is survived by his faithful children, David (Sandy) Casper of Benton Harbor, MI, Becky (Doug) Healy of Mishawaka, IN, John Casper of South Bend, IN, Julie (Mike) Flanigan of Niles, MI, and Cindy Casper of Hannah and Friends, South Bend, IN. He is also survived by his brother, William (Mary Jo) Casper of South Bend, IN, and grandchildren, Kaleigh Casper, Jenny (Bob) Alsfasser, Sara (William) Tomaszew-ski, Brooke, Courtney, and Alec Healy, Jesse, Jacob and Rachel Casper, and Laura Flanigan. Also surviving are great-grandchildren Carter and Peyton Alsfasser and Ashlynn and Addilynn Tomaszewski. At Jerry's request there will be no viewing, but a time of remembrance with the family from 11 am - 4 pm Saturday, April 11, 2015, at Palmer Funeral Home, Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Road, in South Bend. Any donations in Jerry's name may be made to Hannah and Friends on Hollyhock Road. 

 Service Information