Damon “Roy” Kasten, age 85, of Hebron, died peacefully at home surrounded by family on Friday, June 26, 2026. Born on February 8, 1941, in Porter County, Indiana, he was the son of Garry and Gladys (Deardorff) Kasten and graduated from Boone Grove High School in 1959. He retired from farming and working at the Porter County Highway Department.
Roy was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who found great joy in farming and life's simple pleasures. He treasured the many spontaneous visits from family and friends and always welcomed time spent together. He especially cherished fishing trips to Wisconsin with his devoted wife, Jill, and the memories he made giving his grandchildren tractor rides. Roy also enjoyed peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, watching just about any sport, and cheering on his favorite Chicago teams—the Blackhawks, Bears, Bulls, and White Sox.
On July 21, 1960, he married Jill (née Henson), who survives. Also surviving are his children: Ginger Copeland of DeMotte, Indiana; Randy (Stella) Kasten of South Carolina; and Lori (Joseph) Kubiak of Hebron, Indiana; and his grandchildren: Chad, Jilissa, Ashley, Dustin, Trisha, Matthew, Luke, Cam, and Sofia, and great-grandchildren: MaKenzie, Zander, Emma, Braxton, Brooklyn, and Bensen, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Ricky Allen Kasten; and his siblings Garry “Jr.” Kasten, Gladys “Sug” Shroyer, Marilyn Dodrill, and Shirley Claussen.
A visitation will be held Tuesday, June 30th from 12 – 2 pm at Kosanke Funeral Home, 309 S. Main St., Kouts with a private burial to follow at Graceland Cemetery, Kouts. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the VNA Hospice of Northwest Indiana.
GUESTBOOK
We love you Auntie Jill. We will miss uncle Roy along with his jokes and teasing the way he did. He will not be forgotten and will always be loved. Sending you and the family many prayers, hugs and love. -Hollie and Ed Klaus
So sorry to hear of Uncle Roy’s passing. Sending our deepest condolences to Auntie Jill & family. Hold onto the years of memories that will help you through this difficult time. Love you all. -Steve & Jamie Stratton
We are so saddened to hear of Roy's passing. Our hearts go out to all of you during this difficult time. We have so many wonderful memories of growing up as neighbors. Roy was such a special part of those years, and those memories will always hold a special place in our hearts. As adults, we always looked forward to coming by for visits, reminiscing, and catching up. Those times together meant so much to us. May you find comfort in the love of family, the support of friends, and the many cherished memories of Roy that will live on forever. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. With our deepest sympathy and love. -Tami Richeson Hardy
To the family of Roy Kasten. Roy was a man with a big heart. He would help in any way. When we lived by them he would drive a bulldozer up the drive to move the mounds of snow Bryce couldn't get moved in the heart of winter. One winter I went out by myself to go to church in Hobart and pick up some groceries for the family. I almost made it home however a wagon carrying a load of wood tipped over on 250 south. I was stuck. I looked up the street and what did I see. Roy ad Bryce on a big tractor. They couldn't make it ti me by the road, so they did the next best thing and came through the field. Roy shoveled and put a line on my car. To my shock they said hang on and proceeded to pull me across the field. I bounced over the frozen furious in the field. I think that was one ride I will never forget. True friends and neighbors. RIP my friend. You will be missed but NEVER forgotten. -The Cliff and Cassie Richeson family
Our deepest condolences Aunt Jill and family for the loss of Uncle Roy. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May God give you strength and comfort during this difficult time. Much Love, -Chip and Keelie Hooks
I have known the Kastens for 26 years through rick Kasten. I worked with Rick for many years. He would always talk about his dad. Then after time I got to know Roy a little bit. Roy would tell the best stories of him and his dad going raccoon hunting they were the best stories. They are great people hard working and honest. Weather you liked it or not lol. They said it like it was I always loved that. Prayers for you Jill. And all the family. May God provide healing for you all. God bless and rest in peace dear old friend. -Bill Benson
