KUA Mourns Loss of Former Vice Chairman

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KISSIMMEE, Fla., August 28, 2011 – Kissimmee Utility Authority is saddened to announce the death of former vice chairman and director James R. “Jim” Kasper who passed away at his home this morning following a short battle with cancer. He was 82.

Kasper joined the utility board in 2004, and was appointed to a second five-year term in 2009. He resigned from the board earlier this month (Aug. 16) because of deteriorating health.

“We are all very saddened by the passing of Jim, a true friend and one of the outstanding leaders in our utility’s history,” said KUA president and general manager Jim Welsh. “He will be missed and his loss sorely felt. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his wife and the entire Kasper family.”

Kasper was owner of Kasper Real Estate in Orlando, a brokerage started by his father in 1940. He previously served as president of both the Greater Orlando Association of Realtors and the Florida Association of Realtors. One historical note: Kasper twice sold property that turned out to be part of the 27,000 acres Walt Disney put together for Walt Disney World.

A graduate of Orlando High School and Orlando Junior College, Kasper previously served on the City of Kissimmee’s Parks and Recreation Board and Osceola County’s Development Board. Kasper also served 25 years on the national executive board of the Boy Scouts of America.

Kasper is survived by his wife of 49 years, Jean, and seven adult children. Funeral arrangements have not yet been finalized.

Founded in 1901, KUA (https://kua.com) is Florida’s sixth largest community-owned utility providing electric and telecommunication services to 64,000 customers in Osceola County, Fla.

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Chris M. Gent
(407) 933-9836
[email protected]