Richard M. Kaniper, 77 of Bath, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, November 23, 2023, at St. Luke's – Anderson Campus, Easton. Born February 15, 1946, Richard was the son of the late Melvin and Betty Jane Blaine Kaniper. He and his wife, the former Joy Shook, shared 54 years of marriage.

A graduate of Nazareth High School, Class of 1964, Richard furthered his education at the former Churchman's Business College in Easton. He then went on to honorably serve his country in the US Army, from 1966-1969, during the Vietnam War. This experience shaped Richard, instilling in him a deep sense of duty and service.

Professionally, Richard was a truck driver for over 40 years. He worked for Schwermann Trucking Co. and was a proud member of the Central PA Teamsters Union Local #429. Richard logged an impressive 1 million miles as a trucker and served as a Safety Manager.  He also drove for several companies including Cherrydale Farms, and Venezia, before retiring in 2014.  Richard was an adult leader of Boy Scout Pack #39. He also actively contributed to the Rails to Trails, Vietnam Memorial Fund, Wounded Warriors Project, Flight #93 and was also a member of the OOIDA (Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association,) and the National Park Conservatory. He hasn't been an active member of the local American Legion since 2021.

Richard was known for his generous, kind spirit, and his passionate willingness to lend a hand to those in need and taking others "under his wing." He was patient in spending time with his children, often sharing his quirky sense of humor. His thoughtful and gentle nature was evident to all who knew him. It truly was the simplest pleasures that mattered to Richard. He was a man who was fascinated by nature and reveled in the beauty of the clouds, sunrises, and sunsets.

As a member of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, Belfast, he was active with the Property Committee, demonstrating his commitment to his faith and his church community. He also maintained lifelong friendships with a special group of friends, "The Stockertown Gang" that continues to meet monthly for dinner. Those relationships were a testament to his loyalty and the deep bonds formed during his childhood years - growing up in Stockertown. His sudden passing is a significant loss, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

Richard lived a blessed life with his beloved wife, Joy, and a loving family. He was a caring and devoted father to his daughter, Heidi Marie Reppert of Fort Mill, SC, and his son, Kyle R. Kaniper of Bath. Richard loved his son-in-law, Robert Reppert, as if he were his own son.   He was also a proud grandfather, who was curious to learn about their activities and actively involved with each of them. His grandchildren are Hope, Alex Darron, Matthew Reppert, Emilie and Sophia Kaniper.  He also has a surviving brother, Robert E. Kaniper (Shelia), of Bethlehem. He was predeceased by a son, Clark R. Kaniper and a brother, David C. Kaniper

Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing Thursday evening, November 30, from 6-8pm in the Schmidt Funeral Home, 407 Belvidere St., Nazareth and Friday morning, December 1, from 10-11 am in Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 5907 Sullivan Trail, Nazareth (Belfast), PA 18064. Funeral services will follow in the church at 11am. Richard will be laid to rest in Belfast Union Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Richard's name may be made to the church or to Bethlehem Special Olympics – Pennsylvania, P. O. Box 536, Bethlehem, PA, United States, 18016.