Richard Thomas “Dick” Loper, 76, Cromwell, passed away on Friday, Dec. 4, 2015, at his home. He was born on Jan. 8, 1939, in Gary, to Robert Carlton and Mildred (King) Loper.

He grew up in Chesterton, and attended Chesterton High School. He was married on July 3, 1981, to Joanne Border who preceded him on Aug. 13, 2011. He was a former saw mill operator in Howe, was an auto mechanic most of his life and formerly worked at Rochester Ford in Rochester. He moved to the Cromwell area 32 years ago from Rochester.

He was a member of the American Legion Post 253 in North Webster, V.F.W in Syracuse, and Fraternal Order of the Eagles in Syracuse. He was a former member of the American Legion Post 223 in Syracuse and was raised in the Southern Baptist Church.

He is survived by five daughters: Debbie Zell, Valparaiso; Samantha (John) Shock, North Webster; Shari (Darrell) Carr, Warsaw; Melissa (Michael) Steffen, Warsaw; and Zoa Lentz, Cromwell; son: Tom Maney, Valparaiso; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. He is preceded in death by his parents; two stepsons: Patrick and Michael Covington; and grandson: John Stewart.

No public services are planned. Cremation will take place at Cremation Services of Kosciusko County. Owen Family Funeral Home, North Webster.

Preferred memorials may be given to the Richard Loper Funeral Fund, care of the Owen Family Funeral Home, North Webster. To send condolences to the family in Mr. Loper’s memory please visit www.owenfamilyfuneralhome.com