Richard “Dick” Vaughn built more than a label company. He built a community rooted in integrity, humility and unwavering dedication to others. The KDV Label founder passed away on March 1, leaving behind a legacy that stretches far beyond the factory floor.
From Humble Roots to Industry Leader
Richard Vaughn started KDV Label in Waukesha, Wisconsin, with a simple belief. Hard work and treating people right would always pay off.
The company grew into a respected name in the label manufacturing industry. But Vaughn never let success change who he was at his core.
He refused to use the word “I” when talking about the business. For Vaughn, it was always “we.” Every achievement belonged to the team. Every milestone was shared.
His son Shane Vaughn remembers a father who showed up early and stayed late. Not because he had to, but because he genuinely loved what he did.
“He didn’t just run a company,” Shane said. “He created a family.”
A Love Story That Shaped Everything
Behind every great leader is often an equally remarkable partner. For Richard, that partner was Karen.
The two met through an unexpected connection. Karen’s brother was Richard’s best friend and also worked under him at a label company. What started as a friendship quickly turned into something deeper.
Their courtship lasted just three months. But those who knew them say the bond they formed was unshakable.
Karen and Richard became partners in every sense of the word. They built KDV Label together, raised a family together and gave back to their community together.
Their recent $3.5 million donation to the Food Pantry Serving Waukesha County stands as a testament to their shared values. The gift will help feed thousands of struggling families across the region for years to come.
Philosophy of Putting People First
Richard Vaughn ran his business differently than most.
He believed employees deserved respect, fair treatment and a voice in the company. This wasn’t just talk. He backed it up with action every single day.
Former employees describe a workplace where everyone felt valued. From the newest hire to the longest serving team member, Vaughn made time for each person.
Key principles that defined his leadership approach:
- Integrity above profit. He never cut corners, even when it cost him money.
- Listening before speaking. He asked questions and genuinely cared about the answers.
- Sharing credit widely. Success belonged to the whole team, never just the boss.
- Keeping promises. His word was his bond in every deal he made.
This philosophy created fierce loyalty among his workforce. Many employees stayed with KDV Label for decades, a rarity in modern business.
Giving Back to Waukesha County
Richard and Karen Vaughn never forgot where they came from.
Even as their success grew, they remained deeply connected to Waukesha County. They saw the struggles facing their neighbors and felt compelled to help.
The $3.5 million donation to the Food Pantry Serving Waukesha County represents one of the largest gifts in the organization’s history. But it was far from their only act of generosity.
Over the years, the Vaughns supported numerous local causes. They gave quietly, without fanfare or publicity. Many of their charitable acts were never made public at all.
“They didn’t give to see their names on buildings,” one longtime friend shared. “They gave because they believed it was the right thing to do.”
| Impact of Vaughn Family Giving |
|---|
| $3.5 million to Food Pantry Serving Waukesha County |
| Decades of support to local charities |
| Scholarships for employees’ children |
| Community event sponsorships |
Remembering the Man Behind the Business
Those mourning Richard Vaughn describe a man of few words but powerful actions.
He wasn’t flashy. He didn’t seek attention. He simply showed up, did the right thing and expected nothing in return.
His integrity was legendary. Business partners knew a handshake with Dick Vaughn meant more than any contract ever could.
At home, he was a devoted husband, loving father and proud grandfather. Family gatherings were sacred to him. He cherished every moment with those he loved.
His passing leaves a void in Waukesha that will be hard to fill. But the values he championed will continue through the people he touched.
KDV Label remains a testament to what one man with vision and character can build. The company continues operating with the same principles Richard established decades ago.
Richard “Dick” Vaughn proved that success and integrity can coexist. He showed that putting people first is not just good ethics but good business. His “we” philosophy created something that will outlast him by generations. Waukesha has lost one of its finest citizens, but his spirit lives on in every life he changed for the better.
What lessons from Richard Vaughn’s life resonate most with you? Share your thoughts in the comments below and tell us how leaders like him have shaped your community.
