Kim Alan Fruechte

Kim Alan Fruechte, 68, of Decatur, Indiana, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday evening, July 18, 2023, at Adams Memorial Hospital, following a continuing heart condition.

He was born on September 18, 1954, in Decatur, Indiana to the late Dale E. Fruechte and the late Shirley R. (Sprunger) Fruechte. Kim was united in marriage to his wife of 46 years, Cindy Parrish, on August 6, 1977, and she survives.

Kim was a charter member of A City on a Hill Church. His faith was a guide to him in his personal, professional, and community endeavors.

Kim was a proud 1973 graduate of Adams Central High School. His quest for knowledge led him to Indiana State University, where he earned a degree in Industrial Arts. In 1980, he furthered his education, earning a Master's degree with a vocational endorsement in 1987. Kim dedicated 33 years of his life to Bellmont High School, where he served as an Industrial Arts Vocational Welding teacher and an Industrial Cooperative Training Program (ICT) education teacher. His commitment to education and his passion for teaching left a lasting impact on countless students.

Kim was not only a dedicated educator but also a devoted public servant. He served as an Adams County Commissioner for 12 years, dedicating himself to the betterment of his community. Throughout the years, Kim served on numerous boards, including the Adams County Economic Development Corporation, the Emergency Management Board, the LEPC Board, the Maumee River Basin Commission, the Adams County Drainage Board, the Adams/Wells Manufacturing Alliance, the Adams County Extension Service Board, the Adams County Soil and Water Conservation Board, the Crisis Intervention Team, and the Kirkland Township Board. His leadership, wisdom, and dedication were instrumental in shaping the community he so loved.

Beyond his professional life and community involvement, Kim had a deep love for farming and raising turkeys, a passion he nurtured throughout his life. He took great joy in mowing, raising sweet corn, and feeding the wild cats and birds that frequented. His love for agriculture extended to a unique collection of toy tractors.

His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He also had a special affection for his big red truck. Kim was a man who found joy in doing things for others, often going out of his way to lend a helping hand. He was always ready for a visit and a good conversation, his kind and welcoming nature making him beloved by many.

Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Cindy Fruechte of Decatur, Indiana; son, Brandon (Elizabeth) Fruechte of Monroe, Indiana, and their children Brooklyn and Alyssa Fruechte; son, Craig (Mindy) Fruechte of Decatur, Indiana, and their children, Mason and Brielle Fruechte.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Jennifer Fruechte in 1975.

A funeral service for Kim will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at the First Mennonite Church in Berne, Indiana with Pastor Mike Wertenberger officiating. Burial will follow at Salem Magley Cemetery in rural Decatur, Indiana.

The family will receive friends from 12 noon to 8:00 p.m. Monday, July 24, 2023, at the First Mennonite Church in Berne, Indiana and also from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of floral arrangements and gifts, the family asks that preferred memorials be given to the Kim Fruechte Vocational Education Scholarship (checks made payable to ACCF - Fruechte Fund) or the Adams County 4-H Supporting Positive Youth Development.

Arrangements by Zwick & Jahn Funeral Homes of Decatur, Indiana