Kemit P. Baumgardner – age 88, of Zionsville, passed away July 15, 2017 at Hoosier Village Retirement Center. He was born May 19, 1929 in Frankfort, IN to the late Paul and Lucille (Kuhns) Baumgardner. On May 9, 1959, he married his beloved wife Sarah. He is survived by his wife Sarah; sons Kurt D. (Gerard) and Steven P. (Sandra). He is preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Joseph Francis and a sister, Beverly Mae.
He was a graduate of Frankfort High School and received a BS degree in Air Transportation with distinction from Purdue University. He entered the U.S. Air Force and received a 2nd Lt. commission, serving from 1951 to 1953. He served with the 82nd Air Rescue Squadron in southern France. Kemit was employed by Allison Div. of General Motors for 36 yrs. as a mechanical engineer working in several areas including jet engines and automatic transmissions. He was most proud of his work with the M 1 Abrams tank.
Kemit was involved in church, Boy Scouts, and Habitat for Humanity. Over a span of eight decades he became a master of building and flying model airplanes, cabinet making and general carpentry. He pursued many outdoor activities and especially enjoyed mountain hiking and wildlife viewing.
Above all, Kemit was a man of strong faith in God and the power of Christ. He was proud of his family whom he cared for and protected with unending devotion.
Saturday, July 22, 2017 …… Hoosier Village Chapel, 9875 Cherryleaf Dr. 2 PM visitation, 3 PM Memorial Service, light refreshments to follow
Memorial gifts may be sent to:
Will Mosier-Peterson, Oakdale Christian Academy, 5801 Beattyville Rd., Jackson, KY 41339
Frank and Jill Slipher says
To the Baumgardner Family,
Our hearts ache, but we know Kemit is with his Lord and Savior. I know when he gets to heaven and sees my Dad they are going to have one of those classic conversations about cars, books, and faith. I’am so proud that he was my Dad’s best friend for their entire lives. I have had many conversations with Kemit since my Dad passed away in 2010, and learned what a special, kind, and caring person he was. We will miss his earthly presence but never forget him and always keep him in our prayers. Kemit and my Dad both had enduring faith in Jesus Christ, and were men of impeccable integrity, so the long lasting friendship was understandable. My Dad always told me that we would only have a few select friends in our lives, he was proud and sure Kemit Baumgardner was at the top his list. They don’t make men like Kemit and Dad anymore, but we are so fortunate to have had them.
With Love and Sympathy
Frank and Jill Slipher
Nancy Hicks says
To Kemit’s family,
My deepest sympathy. I have many fond memories of Kemit from our small group in Albuquerque and the Biy Scout troop there. He always talked to my son, Caleb, as though he were an adult and not a 3 year old. Kemit always called him Cable instead of Caleb. Kemit had so much to share and was always willing to help someone else. I only wish I had been able to see him again this side of heaven. Sarah, may you find peace in Christ’s arms. I love you. Nancy Hicks (formerly Oakes)
Terry Dockery says
Sending you love and support in this most difficult time. Love to all. Terry Dockery
Cindi Poth-Nebel says
Your dad was and is a good one. I think that he is happy that Emmie took her nanny kids to the Atlanta Botanical Garden and we will celebrate her 18th birthday there per her request. Kurt, your dad is proud of you. I’m looking at one of your books as a kid 1982.
Maury L Fisher MD says
I will always cherish the many memories of my visits with Kemit I still have the wood carving set he gifted me at age 13. I found him to be one of the most intelligent and kind gentlemen I had ever met He was always able to carry on a conversation on just about anything brought up. Most importantly I know that he will be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for all eternity.
Don & Anne Helzer says
Sarah I know your feelings at this time. The difficult feeling will pass but never the memories of the good times. We know that we will see our loved ones again.May God bless you in this time of need. We wouldlove to be with you but we will use this day to gather our memories of a mutual friend Arleen. God bless again.
Lee Buchanan says
Over the past several days my heart has ached and also been filled with joy when thinking of Kemit. My memories of your holiday visits in Sheridan are warm and comforting. Kemit was such an easy, warm, and caring friend. He always focused on all my words and was truly interested in what I had to say. When I see his face, he is always smiling. I am so glad that he remains a part of my life and I know he touched many others. May God provide you with peace and comfort.
Jen says
My deepest condolences to the Baumgardner family. Even though I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Mr. Kemit Baumgardner, I understand that losing a loved one is heartbreaking. A pain that even our Lord Jesus Christ suffered when his friend Lazarus died (John 11:33) But he also gave us hope for the future found in John 5:28, 29 – ” Do not be amazed at this, for the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who did good things to a resurrection of life.” May the hope of once again seeing our loved ones give you the strength that you need during these difficult situation. For more information please visit: JW.org