Richard “Rick” Karas passed away peacefully at his home on December 29,2023 at the age of 76.
He is preceded in death by his parents James and Martha, and his wife Elizabeth. He is survived by his twin sister Rita, his daughters Nichole and Martha, his grandchildren Ashley, Anthony and Lilly and his great grandson Artie.
Rick was born in Waterloo Iowa to James and Martha Karas November 10, 1947. He married Liz May 17, 1973 and they were happily married for 44 years until she passed away September 15, 2017.
Rick was drafted into the Army in 1968. He was a dedicated service member earning various medals and honors to include the Purple Heart he received during his service in Vietnam. He spent lots of time jumping out of planes, scuba diving and he spoke many languages. After retiring from the Army in 1991 he worked a few different jobs, including long distance truck driving which he always joked was the hardest job he ever had! He took a contracting job that landed him in Williamsburg Virginia working at Camp Peary in 2004. He worked there until right before he was diagnosed with cancer in September of 2022.
He was a hard working man who cared deeply for his family and friends. He was the BEST husband, brother, father, grandfather and great grandfather anyone could hope for. He was always listening to music, loved all things sports related, motorcycles, cooking and his truck! He was an avid fisherman and golfer back in his prime. Most of all, he had a huge heart and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery, but no date has been issued yet.
