Richard Michael Vesper was born in the Bronx to Margaret and Frederick Vesper. He grew up in an all brick house his father built overlooking the water on City Island with his loving parents and sister, Peggy. At the age of 22, Richard married the love of his life, his Annie. Richard and Anne never left each other’s sides during their sixty years of marriage. He is a devout Catholic and a proud patriot, having served as a Marine.
Richard obtained a Bachelor’s Degree from Manhattan College and a Master’s Degree in the field of Engineering from Columbia University. After finishing his education, Richard and Anne had their first child, Debra, while living on City Island and then their second child, Karol, after moving to Connecticut. Richard's first job as an engineer was with PerkinElmer. He then joined the CIA in Langley and moved his family to Virginia. While in Virginia, Richard had an exciting career with the CIA, enjoyed time with his family, designed, and built a beautiful new home in Vienna, Va. He ultimately took a position as VP of New Projects at Lockheed Electronics and moved his family to New Jersey.
Richard loved boating and fishing. He and Anne thoroughly enjoyed their home on Long Beach Island. His three grandchildren, Kyle, Dylan and Coryn shared many happy times on LBI with their Pop-Pop. He loved to Kayak, attend his fishing club meetings and spend time with his family during his retirement. Eventually, Richard and Anne became snowbirds, dividing their time between New Jersey and Florida. While in Florida, Richard loved whale watching with Karol and enjoyed time with the large and loving Doucette family.
Richard had a zest for life. Whether it was learning new technology, trying out new water sports or simply becoming proficient at tying fishing flies, Richard had a perfectionist's attention to detail. He had a brilliant mind and a successful career. But most of all, he was a kind and gentle man who truly loved and appreciated his family, friends and the beauty of the world around him.
We would like to share a poem written by Richard, which we will always hold dear in our hearts:
Man should not
by a river be stopped
because it is too wide,
Nor should he ever
journey 'cross that river
without some reason why.
Man should not
his thoughts conceal,
keeping feelings penned inside,
Living life simply,
not unlike a child,
doing the best he can...with a smile.
Despite his brilliance and success, Richard always valued the little things in life and always knew what really mattered. Whether it was his favorite foods prepared by his Annie, camping at Disney World, big hugs from his loving daughters or fun times shared with his grandchildren, he truly cherished them all. We are honored and grateful to have had the opportunity to share in his exemplary life, and will forever benefit from his everlasting wisdom, kindness and love.
Richard is survived by his loving wife Anne, his daughters and spouses Debra and George Gonis and Karol and Farley Doucette and his three grandchildren, Kyle, Dylan and Coryn Gonis.
Due to COVID restrictions, services will be private.
Donations in Richard’s name may be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association. Link below.
To leave online condolences and fond memories of Richard family, please add a memory on our website The Thos L. Shinn Funeral Home, 10 Hilliard Dr., Manahawkin, NJ was entrusted with the arrangements.
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