KEMPER, Howard Oliver

Howard Oliver Kemper, 83, passed away on Saturday, May 3, 2003. Born in Cisco, Texas, he lived his last 47 years in Arizona. He is preceded in death by his wife of 49 years, Jean. At an early age, Mr. Kemper began a career in radio broadcasting. He worked at radio stations in Carlsbad, NM, Big Spring, Abilene, and Houston, TX. During that time, he was best known for his "Man On the Street" program interviewing people of all walks, including many celebrities. He also participated in the Texas 1943 War Bond Tour traveling with Wild Bill Elliott, Anne Jeffreys, Gale Storm, and Gaby Hayes. He was recognized for his fine efforts and contribution to the tour's success by the State of Texas and Republic Pictures. Mr. Kemper entered the life insurance business and was agency manager for Great Southern Life Insurance Co. in Phoenix. Later, he was a partner in an insurance brokerage firm, Kemper & Ray Insurance until retirement. Active in service organizations, he was a member of Kiwanis International, served as President of the Arizona Association of Life Underwriters, as a National Committeeman for the National Association of Life Underwriters, and was named Life Underwriter of the Year. Through the years, Mr. Kemper served as scoutmaster in the Boy Scouts. His interests included amateur photography, hunting, fishing, and camping in the outdoors. He was also very active in amateur radio clubs for most of his life. His "ham" call letters were "W7FVZ" and he served as treasurer of the Arizona Repeater Association. In his later years, he enjoyed traveling, computers, and his weekly Bible study and fellowship with Priority Living of Arizona where he enjoyed learning and sharing the gospel with all who crossed his path. Mr. Kemper is survived by daughter, Dorothy Jean Bentzin, son and daughter-in-law, John H. and Debbie Kemper, 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his special friend, Catherine Sears. A visitation will be held Friday, May 10, 2003 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Best Funeral Services North Central Chapel, 501 E. Dunlap Ave., Phoenix. Published in the Arizona Republic on 5/7/2003.