Kenneth "Turtle VP" Casper, Sr. Obituary (1969

Kenneth J. Casper, Sr. "Just a genuine guy" - lovingly known as Turtle to his family and friends - lost his short battle to a rare and aggressive form of liver (bile duct cancer) on March 4, 2025. He peacefully passed away in the comfort of his home, with his family and closest friends by his side in Rio Grande, New Jersey. Born on December 6, 1969, to the late Edward "Darby" and Emily (nee Porter) Casper, Ken was raised in South Philadelphia and was a proud "2 Streeter". After finishing his early childhood education at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Grade School, Ken would attend St. Joseph's Preparatory High School (Class of 1987), and went on to graduate from St. Joseph's University in 1991 with a Bachelor's degree in Finance. While Ken valued his education, the most cherished aspect of his college experience was the lasting friendships he formed. Lifelong friends including: The Weir, Frattone, and DeLucca families. Despite the constant reminders of his exceptional IQ and his remarkable gift with numbers, Kenny refused to conform to the traditional path his degree seemed to demand. Instead, he chose to pursue what brought him true joy- a risk that most of us lack the courage to take. A few of the jobs Ken held throughout his life included working at CMS, in construction, at UPS, and at the Cape May Library. Yet, one job remained consistent throughout the years--his work as a food delivery driver. It was the perfect job for someone who truly valued connecting with others and meeting new people. Ken was never afraid to take risks. He left South Philadelphia and made the bold decision to move to Key West with his boys, and his beloved dog Mojo, inspired by his favorite song by the Doors, L.A Woman. Above all, Ken was a father first, always doing what was in the best interest of his boys. He then set sights on fulfilling a lifelong dream of moving to Hawaii, inspired by his favorite film, The North Shore. Each day, Ken woke up with purpose and intent, determined to live life on his own terms and without regrets--something few can truly say they've done. Now, he is reunited with his faithful companion Mojo in heaven, where they can continue their journey together. There is no better way to understand a person than by looking at the things they love most in this world. Ken's passions were clear--movies, music, and sports. His favorites included Jaws, Friday the 13th, The North Shore, the band The Doors, Family Ties, and, of course, the Philadelphia Eagles. Ken was fortunate enough to witness two Super Bowl victories for the Eagles during his lifetime, a moment he cherished deeply. Especially with the people there with him, his boys, and his sister Jennifer. Ken didn't watch movies just to pass the time; he watched them to learn, to enjoy, and to connect with others. One of his favorite shows, Family Ties, became a shared experience with his friend Weir, and through this show, Ken adopted his life motto: never conform simply because you're told to. This mindset was shaped by Michael J. Fox's portrayal of Alex P. Keaton, whose character influenced Ken's perspective on life. But above all else, Ken loved his family more than anything. His selflessness was evident when he once signed up to be an organ donor for a stranger, demonstrating just how far he was willing to go for others. Ken embodied the saying, "the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back"--but he took that kindness to a whole new level. When Ken wasn't working, he could be found in places that brought him peace and joy. Whether it was walking the sea wall, playing Quizzo at Owens, sitting on the beach while listening to anything but country music, body surfing the waves, standing for the national anthem at 11 a.m. on the boardwalk, working as an extra on movie sets, marching in the annual Mummers Parade in Philadelphia with the MGK Club, or discussing sports with his boys, Ken lived life fully in the moment. Ken will be deeply missed by his family: his boys, David E. Casper, Kenneth (April Haggerty) Casper, and Zackery (Destinee) Casper; his beloved "grandpups", Louie and Russell; his loving siblings, Edward (Kathleen) Casper, Theresa Casper, and Jennifer (William) Hind; his nieces and nephews, Kate (Frank), Kelly(John), Allison, Emily, Grace, Madelyn, and the late John; his great-nieces and great-nephews, Cole, Reece, Bridget, and Junie; his uncle, Rev. William Porter; cousins; and an extended circle of dear friends. Relatives, friends, and fans from IMDb are invited to gather and celebrate Kenny's life on Sunday, March 9, 2025, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Philadelphia Mummers Museum, located at 1100 S. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148. A period of remembrance will begin at 2:00 p.m., where all are invited to share their memories. Casual attire is required, as it reflects Ken's laid-back lifestyle. We kindly ask that you RSVP via the website to help us prepare for the event. Below is a link to Ken's IMDb profile, where you can explore the movies, he has starred in. In honoring Kenny's generous spirit, you may choose to donate to a charity of your choice in his name or schedule an appointment to donate blood through the American Red Cross. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10978933/bio/?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm