Casper Edward Braafhart peacefully passed away at age 92 on September 28, 2017, surrounded by his loving family. Casper was born on January 29, 1925, in Melcher-Dallas, Iowa. He was the only child of Casper C. and Hattie V. Braafhart. Casper graduated from Lincoln High School in Des Moines, Iowa, on June 10, 1943. Two months following graduation, Casper proudly began serving his country in the United States Army during WWII where he took part in the Southern Philippines and Western Pacific Campaigns. Following the war, Casper married his high school sweetheart, Thelma Ilene Thompson, on November 29, 1947, in Las Vegas, Nevada. They were happily married and celebrated 69 years together. Casper worked as a Master Craftsman/Finish Carpenter his entire life. He completed his training in Carpentry at Long Beach City College and in Business at the Des Moines Register and Tribune. He was also a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America.
Casper is survived by his wife, Thelma Ilene, two daughters, Debra Ann Braafhart (Norris), Terri Ann Braafhart (Caves), 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. Casper will be remembered for his hard work, integrity, honesty, love of family, and loyalty to his wife.
Casper’s viewing will be held at Velda Rose United Methodist Church (5540 East Main Street, Mesa, Arizona) at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 6, 2017, with a service of remembrance and hope at 11:00 a.m. Immediately following the service, Casper will be laid to rest with military honors at the Mountain View Funeral Home and Mortuary. (7900 East Main Street, Mesa, Arizona)