Richard L. "Rick" Kapusta Ph.D.

Richard L. Kapusta, Ph.D., 76, of Upper St. Clair, PA passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025 with his wife by his side after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Finleyville, PA on August 27, 1949, Rick lived a life marked by dedication to family, professional excellence and community service.

Rick's greatest joy in life was his 55-year marriage to his childhood sweetheart, Susan Mae Scharf Kapusta. Only ages 14 and 13, respectively, when they met, Rick and Sue were married on May 30, 1970, in Pittsburgh. Their enduring love story became the foundation for a life filled with family, friends and shared dreams. From their hopeful and humble beginning, they were the driving force in each other's lives, working hard to achieve ambitious academic and professional goals. Together, they created cherished memories with family and friends that spanned decades and enjoyed leisure time together on numerous trips to Virginia Beach and the Caribbean.

A proud graduate with honors of both the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Higher Education, and California University of Pennsylvania, where he received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Dr. Kapusta built an illustrious 50-year career as a school psychologist, entrepreneur, researcher, consultant and university professor. On both a local and national scale, he was a widely respected, innovative leader in the field. Known as the quintessential professional, Dr. Kapusta was valued for his contributions, compassionate care and commitment to making a difference in the lives of his clients and community.

Rick's career progression reflected his outstanding capability and commitment. Beginning as a School Psychologist at Arin Intermediate Unit in 1974 in Kittanning, PA, he demonstrated exceptional leadership and vision throughout his career. In 1976, he became the full-time School Psychologist for Bethel Park School District, Bethel Park, PA. He served in this position for 41 years, where he was responsible for leading the development and successful execution of the District's psychological programs, providing leadership, research support and counsel to a variety of professional groups, including educators, school counselors, school administrators, pediatricians, school nurses and specialized support staff.

In 1980, he concurrently established a successful private practice in Mt. Lebanon focusing on diagnosing and treating complex mental health conditions. He served as a consultant for a local pediatric practice, participating in nationwide research studies for major pharmaceutical companies to determine the efficacy and psychological impact of life-altering products and medications. He also presented a paper at the annual conference of the California Association of School Psychologists in Anaheim, CA, regarding the role of the school psychologist in higher education.

Following his retirement from Bethel Park School District in 2017, he brought his passion to serve families in need to Montour School District in McKees Rocks, PA.

His professional dedication was evident in his extensive network of affiliations. He held the distinction of Nationally Certified School Psychologist and was a long-standing member of the National Association of School Psychologists, the Pennsylvania Psychological Association and the American Psychological Association.

It was not uncommon for him to be approached by former patients and parents who simply wanted to say hello or share an update on their families. His wife still cherishes these meaningful connections and is in awe over the impact he had on so many people in changing outlooks and improving lives along the way.

Dr. Kapusta's commitment to service extended to academia and philanthropy. He loved sharing his knowledge and love of education as an adjunct professor of psychology at California University of Pennsylvania, Duquesne University and the Community College of Allegheny County.

He and his wife, Sue, shared this passion for education. As adjunct professors in psychology and business, respectively, they taught and mentored university graduate students who went on to distinguished careers.

Rick and Sue also contributed their support and influence to a wide range of philanthropic organizations, most notably, the University of Pittsburgh; Duquesne University; St. Thomas More Catholic Church - Resurrection Parish; St. Clair Health; Hillman Cancer Center; The Little Sisters of the Poor; Animal Friends; and a variety of other charitable organizations.

In addition to his accomplished career, Rick was a family man who faithfully continued the tradition of family love. He had a special touch to make happy times even happier and times of struggle significantly easier. Selfless and generous, Rick was always ready and willing to help a friend or family member in need. He was as meticulous in being and in dress as he was in his work. He was an avid reader (Harlan Coben and James Patterson), golfer, runner and weightlifter. He ran several Pittsburgh 5Ks for fun. He was a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Pirates. He had a passion for cars and especially loved and drove his BMW 3 Series. He was always up for going to the movies and out to dinner. And he adored the family cat, PJ, who brought Rick and Sue immeasurable joy for many years.

Rick made friends everywhere he went. He bravely and privately fought illness with his trademark tenacity and wit. In his wife's words, "Rick's nature was to consider other people first; even while struggling with his final illness at St. Clair Health, he asked nurses, doctors and staff about themselves, their families and their pets. He died as he lived, with dignity, compassion for others and grace."

Rick leaves behind a legacy of love, service and excellence that touched countless lives. In addition to his devoted wife, he is survived by his lifelong friend and sister, Kathy Young, and her husband Russ Young; many other loved ones; and an abundance of loving coworkers and friends. He was predeceased by his proud parents, Steve and Betty Kapusta.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 29, 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m., at Beinhauer Funeral Home, 2828 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317. A mass is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 30, at St. Thomas More Church, 126 Fort Couch Road, followed by a service at Woodruff Memorial Park, 2095 Washington Road, Canonsburg, PA 15317.

Those wishing to honor Rick's memory may make gifts to St. Clair Health Oncology (https://www.stclair.org/giving/ways-to-give/) or the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center (https://hillman.upmc.com/), as well as organizations that reflect his lifelong commitment to community health and animal protection.

The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate and expert care provided by the doctors and nurses of St. Clair Health and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center.

Richard L. Kapusta, Ph.D., will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving son and brother, great friend, distinguished psychologist and dedicated community servant whose impact will be felt for generations to come.

His incredible work ethic, calm, caring and humble nature, along with a deep devotion to his family will always be remembered and admired.