Roger Dale Kuhlmann, 68, died on Sunday, August 13, 2023, at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha, Nebr. He was born on September 29, 1954, to LaVerne and Opal “Darlene” (Shannon) Kuhlmann in Onawa. After graduating from Onawa High School in 1973, he pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in secondary science education from Wayne State College in 1978. He earned his Master of Education from the University of Northern Iowa. Roger married Debra Evans on July 25, 1976, at the Logan Christian Church. Roger's passion for teaching led him to become a high school science teacher at Lynnville Sully for one year before joining Missouri Valley High School, where he taught until his retirement in 2010. Roger also taught first-level Chemistry at Metro Community College until 2022. In addition to teaching, Roger served as a coach for various sports teams and was the junior class sponsor. He coached little league softball, high school softball, freshman baseball, cross country and track. His lifelong dedication to mentoring young students and athletes extended beyond the classroom, leaving a positive and lasting impact on their lives.
Roger was an active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Missouri Valley. His faith guided him throughout his life and instilled strong values of compassion and kindness. Roger had an adventurous spirit and loved exploring nature by camping and hiking in National Parks. He also enjoyed spending time on the golf course. A true nature enthusiast, he found solace in feeding the birds and working on DIY projects. Above all else, Roger cherished time spent with family and friends. Roger had an unwavering passion for the Boston Red Sox and followed college football and basketball with great enthusiasm. His love for sports brought him joy and provided an opportunity to connect with others who shared his same interests.
Roger's memory will forever remain in the hearts of his loved ones, colleagues, students and all those whose lives he touched. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication to education and love for family and friends.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Ron and Richard Kuhlmann; sister, Loucetta Seyler; parents-in-law, Gene and Marcie Evans; and brother-in-law, Ted Smith. He is survived by his wife, Debra Kuhlmann of Missouri Valley; son, Keegan and Laura Kuhlmann of Minneapolis, Minn.; daughter, Kenzie Kuhlmann of Missouri Valley; two grandsons, Finnley and Otto; two brothers, Randel and Noreen Kuhlmann of Mapleton, and Don and Laura Kuhlmann of Onawa; sister, Linda Smith and partner Regan Homandberg of Alcester, SD; sisters-in-law, Brenda Kuhlmann and Leigh Kuhlmann; brother-in-law, Greg and Pam Evans; nieces; nephews; great nieces; great nephews; and many other relatives and friends.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, August 19, 2023, at the Missouri Valley High School. Pastor Jean McCartney presided over the service with Brian Knott as the eulogist. The recorded songs were
“Don’t Blink”, “One More Day”, “Amazing Grace” and “Sweet Caroline”. The honorary pallbearers were Finnley Kuhlmann, Otto Kuhlmann, Randal Kuhlmann, Don Kuhlmann and Linda Smith.
Fouts Funeral Home in Woodbine was in charge of arrangements. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
