Richard "Dick" Laper, age 86 of Markesan, passed away at home on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

Dick was born April 20, 1939, in the Township of Manchester to Maurice and Margaret Vinz Laper. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Manchester. He grew up on the family farm and attended the rural Carter School for 8 years, then graduated from Markesan High School, Class of 1957. After high school he joined the National Guard's 32nd Division out of Ripon, WI, in October 1956. Dick served until 1959 and was then called to duty again in Lewis, Washington from 1961 to 1962. He was honorably discharged in 1962. Upon discharge he started his lifelong career as a farmer. On May 25, 1965, he married Carol Starbird at St. John's Lutheran Church in Markesan, where they were members. Together they had four children, and this past May celebrated 60 years of marriage. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and was an avid sports fan.

He is survived by his wife Carol; his three daughters, Sheila (Matt) Schmidt of Markesan, DeAnna (Paul) Johnson of Cambria, and Laurie Laper of Plymouth, Minnesota; his grandchildren Elise (Josh) Dahlke, Mason (Jennifer) Schmidt, Adrian Johnson, Samuel Johnson, Alexis Johnson; and great-grandchildren Evan and Owen Dahlke, Nash, Reagan, and Easton Schmidt; three brothers, Donald (Carol) Laper, James Laper, and Curtis Laper; sister-in-law, Kathy Starbird; and nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his son, Todd Laper; his parents; one brother, Thomas Laper; one sister, Linda Esse; and other relatives.

In honoring Richard's wishes, private family services will be held. Burial will take place at Lake Maria Cemetery.

Cornerstone Funeral & Cremation Services in Markesan is honored to be serving the family.