Dick Kashner

Dick was born Jan. 27, 1937, in Keiser, to Clarence “Mooch” and Charlotte (Coutts) Kashner. He became a legend in the area’s baseball culture, tending and supporting the Bunker Hill Baseball Field complex for more than 50 years and serving as a passionate coach for years to young baseball players who adored him.

Dick was instrumental in the creation of the Shamokin/Coal Township Little League Baseball, in Shamokin, with Paul Metrocavage; organized the Shamokin Area Youth Basketball League, also with Paul Metrocavage; and was the driver behind the creation of no less than six baseball fields in the Shamokin/Coal Township area. Dick was also a dedicated member of the Shamokin Rotary Club, which he joined in 2013.

Dick had an overflowing passion for serving the community and for offering a “hand up” to all who needed him. It was impossible to meet someone who didn’t know and appreciate him, and his children and grandchildren often identify themselves simply as “Dick Kashner’s” relative to be fast friends with new acquaintances, thanks to his warm and generous reputation.

On Feb. 9, 1957, he married Merle Ann Morgan. They raised two daughters, Karen and Kathy, and a son, Rick.

Starting in the coal mines with his father, Dick spent his career as a USDA inspector. After he retired, he still kept busy working at Weis, the housing authority and Shamokin Area High School.

Sadly, Dick passed away on Sunday, Feb. 14, 2021.  He was a beloved husband, father of three, grandfather to six, and inspiring role model to generations of sports players in and beyond the Shamokin area.