Casper passed gently into the light on Sunday, January 28, 2024 at the age of 69, surrounded by prayer, love, and family after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Scott City, Kansas, on November 15, 1954, to Casper J. and Martha L. (Hill) Pahls. Casper graduated from Salina South High School in 1972 after which he joined the Air Force. Casper was a proud Air Force Veteran and especially enjoyed his time while stationed in Japan. He loved his career as an over-the-road truck driver for Mahaska-Pepsi. He met many long-lasting friends during his over-the-road travels whom he cherished. Casper was an avid hunter, trap shooter, and fisherman. He was a firm believer in catch and release as he refused to eat fish—there wasn’t enough ketchup in the world to make fish edible for him.
Casper was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his two sisters, Elizabeth O’Byrne (Douglas), and Dr. Mary Chittim (Clayton), brother Christopher (Ron), a niece, Jeanne McManaway (Mike), a nephew, Jason O’Byrne (Amy), three great nephews and five great nieces, and many caring friends.
Services will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at Ryan Funeral Home in Salina, Ks. Visitation will be at 1:00, followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00. Interment will follow at Mt. Calvary Cemetery with military honors. A reception will follow at Ryan’s. It is the family’s hope that friends and loved ones will join them at the reception to share fun stories and memories.
Memorials may be made to Interim Health Care and Hospice of Salina in care of Ryan Funeral Home.