Edward S. Kukelhan

Edward S. “Buck” Kukelhan, 69, of Decatur, Indiana passed away on Friday, December 27, 2019, at his daughter’s residence in Schererville, Indiana following an extended illness.

He was born on May 17, 1950, in Decatur, Indiana to the late Elmer Kukelhan and the late Marcella (Hoffman) Kukelhan. Edward was united in marriage to Kathleen Bultemeier on July 17, 1971, at Zion Lutheran Church in Decatur.

He was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Decatur.

Edward was a 1968 graduate of Bellmont High School. He retired in 2004, from International Harvester, currently known as Navistar. He was also formerly employed at Coachman Industries for five years.

He proudly served his country, joining the Indiana National Guard at Baer Field in Fort Wayne. His time of duty was from 1969 until he was honorably discharged in 1974.

Ed’s greatest gift was being a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Fond memories were made on weekends at Pic-a-Spot camping and boating. In Ed’s life there were three constants, Ford’s, cards, and fishing. Of the many Ford’s Ed owned his 1970 Boss 302 Mustang was his pride and joy. Ed found joy in playing Pedro and Euchre with his father, Elmer, and brothers’-in-law, Brian, Craig, Daryll, and Keith. He loved to Walleye fish in Wisconsin and Minnesota, and later in life Bass fishing in Winterhaven, Florida. Ed enjoyed drinking Strohs while pursuing these past times. In retirement, Ed spent many hours out in his shop completing woodworking and metal working projects.

He is survived by his wife, Kathleen “Kathy” Kukelhan of Schererville, Indiana; son, Chad (Laura) Kukelhan of Decatur, Indiana; daughter, Stacy Kukelhan of Schererville, Indiana; daughter, Lindsy (Aaron) Johnson of Parker, Colorado; five grandchildren, Henry Kukelhan & Meryl Kukelhan; Sophia Kukelhan; and Taj Johnson & Dak Johnson; four sisters’, Sandra Miller of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Deborah Glasper of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Kathleen (Steve) Griggs of Jacksonville, Florida, and Cheryl (Gil) Bearman of Hoagland, Indiana; brother, Gary Kukelhan of Birmingham, Alabama; Kathy’s siblings who Ed was very close with, brother, Keith (Jo) Bultemeier of Roanoke, Indiana; sister, Connie Shady of Valparaiso, Indiana; brother, Craig (Chum) Bultemeier of Decatur, Indiana; brother, Brian (Deb) Bultemeier of Greenfield, Indiana; and brother, Daryll (Cheryl) Bultemeier of Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Edward is preceded in death by his sister, Michelle Kukelhan at the age of 6 months old.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 2, 2020, at Zion Lutheran Church in Decatur with Pastor James Voorman officiating. Burial will follow in Decatur Cemetery.

Family and friends will be received from 1-6 p.m. on Tuesday, December 31, 2019, at the Zwick & Jahn Funeral Home in Decatur and also one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.

Preferred memorials can be given to Zion Lutheran Church – Decatur or Schererville Fire Department (Lift and Assist Program).

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Zwick & Jahn Funeral Homes in Decatur, Indiana.