Karl Eugene Lindenmuth

Karl Eugene Lindenmuth, 76, of rural Wamego, Kansas, passed away Monday, April 15, 2013 at Select Specialty Hospital in Topeka, Kansas. Karl was born November 5, 1936 in Scott City, Kansas, the son of Earl C. and Lena “Pearl” (Carson) Lindenmuth. He attended school in Scott City graduating from Scott County High School in 1954. During high school Karl became a state champion pole vaulter both his Junior and Senior years. After high school Karl attended Kansas State University on a track scholarship where he eventually would become the school record holder at K-State for pole vaulting for several years. Karl graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Wildlife Conservation in 1963. While attending college Karl also enlisted into the United States Army, where he served for 6 months in active duty before joining the Army National Guard. While in the Army National Guard he also obtained his pilot license. On April 7, 1963 at a country church in rural Randolph, Kansas, Karl was united in marriage to Gelene E. Bletscher. She survives of the home. Karl went to work for Caterpillar, formerly known as Balderson in 1970 as an assistant plant manager. He held several positions there before becoming a Senior Engineer. Karl retired from Caterpillar in 2005, but continued to be actively engaged in business activities until his death. Karl was a member of the Wamego School Board for 14 years and was involved in various Wamego community activities including the restoration of the Columbian Theatre. He was a member of the Wamego First United Methodist Church and was actively involved in the church. He enjoyed playing the role of part-time doctor, veterinarian, auto mechanic, and general handyman to his family, friends, and co-workers. Karl is also survived by his son: Kelly Lindenmuth and wife Debbie of Springdale, AR; four daughters: Karlene Lindenmuth of Wamego, KS, Kathy Zubillaga and husband Steve of Topeka, KS, Kari Peek and husband Jeff of Belvue, KS and Kami Beets and husband Laith of Wamego, KS; nine grandchildren and numerous brother in-laws, sister in-laws, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers: Howard and Everett. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, April 18, 2013, at Wamego First United Methodist Church. Burial will follow at Wamego City Cemetery. Karl will lie in-state beginning at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday with a visitation from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Stewart Funeral Home, Wamego. Memorials are suggested to the Wamego First United Methodist Church Building Fund or the American Heart Association and may be left in care of the Stewart Funeral Home, PO Box 48, Wamego, KS 66547.