Richard Kasprzak, long time coordinator of the Louisiana Artificial Reef Program for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, passed away on May 27, 2007 in Baton Rouge.

He was an expert fish biologist who specialized in reef fisheries and artificial reef development. Groups from around the world sought his input and guidance on artificial reef issues and he was invited to participate in many national and international reef forums. He had been in charge of implementation of the reef program for the state since its inception. Under his guidance, the program accepted over 150 obsolete oil and gas platforms for the benefit of saltwater anglers