The community has certainly lost an icon and a media legend with the passing of Vern Kaspar. I would imagine that many of you reading this have a story to tell about Vern. I was honored not only to know him but to work for him for several years at Kaspar Media. After going through the normal process of application and interview with the Operations Director Randy Lawson I was told I would have to meet with the owner and operator in Mr. Kaspar. He was direct, stern and asked several questions. I left quite intimidated and frankly afraid. I was called back later that day and told I was hired. From that time on I developed a relationship with Vern that has influenced me in many ways.
Mr. Vern Kaspar lived a tremendous life filled with travel and experiences that most could only dream of. From visiting China at least five times to his many interviews with global leaders, Vern brought a little slice of the world back to Frankfort and Clinton County through WILO and Kaspar Media. His story telling held the attention of community folks for years on the award-winning program “Party Line” heard each morning on WILO. Later in life when it was more difficult to travel he would still visit around the globe through Ham Radio. It was fascinating to hear him talk about the conversations he would have from Russia, India, Sudan and too many more to share. Mr. Kaspar took his dream and passion for broadcasting and created a small empire. He would be the first to tell you that it was education that moved his dreams to reality and education is another legacy he will leave us through the kind and generous donation to our community in Ivy Tech.
Vern Kaspar is truly a shinning example of the American Dream and seeing it through with vision, hard work and perseverance. I pray for the Kaspar family today and the days ahead in their great personal loss. I also pray that our community will share in the many ideals of Mr. Kaspar and do all we can to better ourselves through education and the power of communication. Thank you, Vern for your foresight and drive in building your media business here in Clinton County and for sharing your journey with all of us each day through the airways of Kaspar Broadcasting.