Richard R. kulpa

Richard R. Kulpa 70 of La Salle. Passed away at 2:58 pm August 24, 2013 at St Francis Medical Center Peoria, after a short, but brave battle with cancer. Memorial Prayer service will be Thursday September 5 at 12:00 pm in the Ptak Funeral home. Rev Harold Datzman OSB will officiate. Peru Veterans Memorial Group will conduct Military services at the funeral home. Burial will be at later date in Peru City cemetery. Memorial visitation will be Thursday from 10 am to 12 in the funeral home. Cremation rites have been accorded. He was born August 23, 1943 in Peru to Joseph and Helen (Sajnaj) Kulpa. A proud and patriotic man Richard served in US Coast Guard from 1962-66 serving in the Great lakes, south Pacific and along California coast. Richard worked at caterpillar in Aurora as a draftsman for many years. After that he followed his lifelong dream of becoming a riverboat captain. He began his journey as a first mate on the Spirit of Peoria and finally retired as a master captain on the Casino Rock Island, where he was able to share his love of both rivers with everyone. He served on the board of South shore Boat Club for many years. Richard is survived by 1 son Christopher (Karen) Kulpa of Tabernash, CO. and 1 daughter Teresa Vinyard of La Salle with whom he resided. 4 Grandchildren Miles Kulpa, Bobbi Jo Bourell, Skylar and Ryan Vinyard and 3 sisters Joan Kulpa and Helen Baker of Peoria. Cathy (Edmund) Antas of Collinsville, IL. 1 brother Joseph Kulpa, Jr. of Aurora, CO. and many nieces and Nephews. Richard was preceded in death his parents and 1 sister Marjorie Sweezey. In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family. On Line condolences and remembrances may be shared at PtakFH.com