Kurt Kahl

Kurt Kahl, 82, of Pendleton, passed away surrounded by his loving family on Monday, October 27, 2025, at Primrose Memory Care of Anderson following an extended illness.

He was born on December 28, 1942, in Indianapolis, Indiana to George W. and Martha (Waymire) Kahl. He moved to Pendleton in 1944 and was an active community resident all of his life. He was a 1961 graduate of Pendleton High School. He had worked in construction and electrical job for four months and had worked at Delco Remy Division of General Motors for 6 days. After deciding that factory work wasn't for him, Kurt was hired as a yard/delivery man at the Pendleton Lumber Company in 1962.

Kurt married Linda Stoner on June 23, 1963 at the Pendleton Methodist Church in Pendleton. They remained married until her death in 2002. He married Beckie Steele in 2003.

In 1969, Kurt began a partnership with Laurel Stoner at the Pendleton Lumber Company. He eventually assumed ownership of the business. The Lumber Company sponsored little league teams and many community activities, including the building of the Pendleton Community Building. The lumber company served as a "hub" for many activities during his tenure there. Peanuts and popcorn are remembered by many local residents. He sold the lumber company in 2004 and the land and building in 2018.

Kurt served for over 40 years with the Pendleton Volunteer Fire Department. He was fire chief for 18 of those years. He was instrumental in starting the ambulance service, which began in 1975, and the Rookie Program in 1982.

He was a founding member of the Pendleton Park Board, where he served for 12 years and was also instrumental in expanding the park property. He was also a founding member of the South Madison Community Foundation, which began in 1992. He initiated a Madison County Fire Chief's Association and served as a board member of Fall Creek Regional Waste from 2013 to 2020.

Kurt was a longtime member of Pendleton First United Methodist Church where he served as a trustee, along with many volunteer positions. He was awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash by Indiana governor, Frank Bannon in June of 2003, distinguishing him for his "Humanity in Living, Loyalty in Friendship, Wisdom in Counsel and Inspiration in Leadership." He volunteered, often behind the scenes, at most community functions throughout the years. He was also a contributor to many people and projects anonymously.

Beyond his community interests, he was known for his sense of humor, practical jokes and his positive outlook on life. He cherished his family and friends. Many long-time residents of Pendleton have "Kurt Kahl" stories guaranteed to bring laughter to his friends and family.

Kurt is survived by his wife of 22 years, Beckie Steele Kahl; two daughters, Beth Humphrey (Kenny) and Susan Baker (Terry); a sister, Karen Noland (Darrel); three grandchildren, Ali Chatham, Kacie Ring, Kellie Ring; one great-grandson, Kyler Ring; stepchildren, Todd Steele (Molly), Tamara Steele (Brent Brennemer), Tiffany McAvoy (John); stepgrandchildren, Miller Steele, Catherine Steele, Jack McAvoy, William Steele, Rand McAvoy, Mitchell Steele, Arden McAvoy and Josie Brennemer; along with several nieces and nephews and their children.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda (Stoner) Kahl; his parents; his stepfather, Walter V. Milner.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, November 3, 2025, at First United Methodist Church, 225 West State Street, Pendleton, Indiana 46064 with Pastor Mike Canada and Pastor Julia Gonzalez officiating. Burial will follow at Grovelawn Cemetery in Pendleton.

Visitation will be from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Sunday, November 2, 2025, at Bozell Funeral Homes and Crematory, Lahm Chapel, 222 East State Street, Pendleton, Indiana 46064.

At the conclusion of the graveside services, the family would like to invite all the community members to the South Madison Fire Territory Fire Station for a extended Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to South Madison Fire Territory, 100 South Broadway, Pendleton, Indiana 46064.

Online condolences may be shared at www.bozellfuneralhomes.com.