Richard Kampeter

Richard H. Kampeter, 84, of Wardsville, Missouri, passed away peacefully Friday, August 8, 2025. He was born on October 30, 1940, in Koeltztown, Missouri, a son of the late Ilde and Anna (Stumpe) Kampeter. He attended St. Boniface grade school and graduated from Fatima High School in 1958. He was married to Elizabeth "Betty" Schell on November 4, 1961. Elizabeth preceded him in death on October 23, 2023.

Richard was a member of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher. In 2006, Richard and Betty were awarded the Pope St. Gregory the Great medal by Pope Benedict XVI for their charitable works. In 2025, Pope Francis promoted him to Knight Commander of Pope St. Gregory the Great. On April 1, 1970, Richard and Gary Schell founded Diamond Pet Foods. A company that has been in the family for 55 years, which led to his induction into the Missouri Agricultural Hall of Fame in 2025. Later in his career, Richard and Gary purchased Mid America Bank where he had a seat on the board till his passing. Richard had a passion for aviation. He was also a licensed pilot, a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, member of the Quiet Birdmen and co-owner of Jefferson City Flying Service. He loved flying and owning airplanes of all types. He enjoyed meeting with his friends at the "Toy Box" (His Hangar) playing cards, traveling and his fishing groups that he entertained at the family lodge in Alaska. Richard enjoyed trips prairie dog hunting with friends and family. He also had a great passion for motorsports, particularly dirt racing where he enjoyed countless nights with his race team. Most of all spending time with his family and the always welcome guest at his home were some of his fondest memories.

He is survived by his children: Michael (Paige) Kampeter, Thomas (Julie) Kampeter, Ann Kampeter, John (Heather) Kampeter, and Andy (Karen) Kampeter; his grandchildren: Brandon Kampeter (Whitney Wright), Adam Kampeter, Trey (Staci) Kampeter, Jacob (Ryann) Kampeter, Claire (Clay) Benne, Alex Kampeter, Allison Kampeter, Kate Kampeter and Ava Kampeter; his great-grandchildren: Reese Kampeter, Gwynn Kampeter, Hank Kampeter and Kipp Benne; his brother: Jerome (Alice) Kampeter; his sisters: Geraldine Kampeter, and Janie (Leeroy) Budnik; his sister-in-laws: Irene Kampeter and Kathy Kliegel; his brother-in-law: Gary (Millie) Schell; and numerous nieces, nephews, and many friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother: Tony Kampeter; in-laws: Bernard and Ella Schell; and sister-in-laws: Carol Riley and Patricia Schell.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Joseph with Msgr. David Cox officiating. A visitation and reception for family and friends to celebrate Rich's life will be held immediately following the Mass at the Cathedral of St. Joseph's Undercroft.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to St. Benedict's Abbey (1020 N. 2nd Street Atchison, Kansas 66002).

Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 West Main Street, Jefferson City, Missouri 65109 (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.