Carl Lewis Ketchum

There are countless memories and things that can be said about Mr. Carl Lewis Ketchum. He was known by his family and friends for his uncanny ability to influence others with his wonderful sense of humor, creativity, and responsibility. Carl was a mentor, a natural life leader, and able to bring out the best out of all the people whose lives he touched.

Carl was born on May 27, 1939 in Farmersville, Illinois. His parents were Richard and Thelma Ketchum. In 1949 the family moved to Missouri where they worked on their family farm. In 1951 the family moved back to Illinois where he spent the rest of his childhood. His parents were saddened when he left Farmersville, but were very proud as grew into the man he was.

Carl grew up with two siblings, an older brother Wayne, and younger sister Norma. During the time in Missouri the children helped work the family farm and he learned many life skills. Upon returning to Illinois Carl finished he elementary education. After working on the farm Carl and his father worked together on the oil rig where his love for mechanics had grown.

On July 22, 1966, Carl married the love of his life Mrs. Bubble Ketchum at Frist Baptist Church in Capital Heights Maryland. Compassionate and devoted, Carl worked hard to make his family happy. In 1972 Carl moved his family to Arizona for a new beginning with his young family.

Carl’s quality of being caring and loving translated to being a great father to his children. Carl instilled the same qualities into his three children, Andrew, Kimber, and son James with who preceded him in death. The children always loved him, respected, and looked up to him. Carl was able to relate to his children throughout their lives and always provided the best for them. Carl had four grandchildren; James, Carina, Anthony, and Crystal, that he adored and influenced greatly.

Carl was a United States Air force veteran who worked as an aircraft and engine mechanic. He was stationed in Texas, Holland, Germany, and the Netherlands from 1958-1964. He was very proud to be able to serve his country and earned several awards during his service. He received the Air force Longevity Medal and Good Conduct Medal. He also received several unit citations. While stationed at Andrews Air force Base in Maryland he met his wife.

Carl derived much satisfaction from restoring vintage vehicles. Because of his creativity and intuitive nature he was able to envision the original vehicle and bring it back to life. He enjoyed marveling at the beauty of the classic cars. Carl had a passion for airplanes. He was always intrigued by the mechanics and pure beauty of them.

For over 35 years Carl worked in the automotive industry. As he said he had another family at work, The Berge Family. Carl enjoyed working and helping others so much so that he never found himself wanting to retire completely. He felt very strongly about the Berge Group and the relationships that had been formed over the years. Carl never did anything solely for individual recognition; however, he received a multitude of accolades over the years. He was best known for being a Master Technician in several areas.

Carl loved his family very much and looked forward to traveling to see them at the biannual family reunions. During his travels he always made a point to visit and create new memories with his in-laws which he was quick to show his humorous side through various practical jokes. He also enjoyed taking his family on vacations that included outdoor activities. During these vacations he enjoyed camping and ATV and rail riding.

Carl loved his pets. Carl’s favorite pet was Lance, a German Shepard. Throughout his life he owned several other German Shepards. He left Thor behind to guard and protect his loving wife.

Carl passed away on October 16, 2010. He died peacefully and quietly in his sleep. He is survived his wonderful and devoted wife, his siblings and their spouses, his children, and his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Carl was laid to rest at Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery in Chandler, Arizona.

Throughout his life, Carl was generous in sharing his personal attributes, giving and helping those he knew and loved. He would often fill the role as a mentor to people of all ages, young and old, and brought out the best in everyone. He was imaginative, original, tender hearted and easy to get along with. Carl leaves behind him a legacy of lifelong friendships and cherished memories. Everyone whose lives he touched will dearly remember Mr. Carl Lewis Ketchum. There are no goodbyes; wherever you are you will always be in my heart.