Richard Korpanty

July 7, 2018, in the early dawn, in Marshalltown, where the skies were a beautiful clear blue with not a cloud to be seen, and the sun guiding the way, Richard, “Dick” Korpanty embarked on his last flight. Richard “Dick” J. Korpanty died on Saturday, July 7, 2018 while residing at the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, Iowa. Dick formerly lived in New Fairfield, Connecticut, until 2013 when he moved to the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, to be closer to his son, Eric and family. For condolences or questions please visit: www.mitchellfh.com or call 641-844-1234. Mitchell Family Funeral Home is caring for Dick and his family.Dick was born to parents Agatha (Zelanis) and Walter Korpanty on April 1, 1924 in Brooklyn, New York.He completed Aviation Trade School in High School specializing in and earning a degree in aircraft engineering. Towards the end of his high school career, he received a letter of invitation to play for the NY Brooklyn Dodgers. His passion was to become a pilot though, and he chose to enlist in the Army Air Core instead of playing ball.He enlisted on his 18th birthday, April 1, 1942.Dick’s years of service included his participation in WWII, being stationed in the Aleutian Islands, Alaska. He was especially fond of his B24 WWII Crew and spoke of them often with profound respect and admiration. He continued his service during the Korean War stationed at March Air Force Base in California. Dick flew a variety of aircraft during his years of service which included the B24, B17, B29, B50, and F82. He retired from the service as a Captain on April 25, 1952. In the years following his retirement from service, Dick worked in management at various retail companies, including Sears. He managed and owned service stations in New York and Connecticut, prior to his retirement in business.Dick enjoyed time spent with his family, fishing, reading, traveling, going on cruises, visiting Casinos, enjoying a nice glass of Glen Livet, and attending Air Force Reunions around the United States. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Larry, his first wife Mira, his second wife Peggy, his son-in-law Peter, and his step-son Mac. He is survived by his daughter Susan Paduano of California, his grandson Peter, great grand-daughter Sophia, his son Eric (Linda) of Iowa, grandson Brendan (Amanda), and granddaughter Chelsea (Andrew Tobben), as well as many relatives and friends.Dick has chosen to be cremated and will be buried later in the State Veterans Cemetery in Connecticut.In his memory, feel free to donate to a Charity of your choice or to the Iowa Veterans Home in Marshalltown, Iowa. The family would like to thank the IVH Staff for their professional and personal care and compassion.