Gregory Robert Kuhlman

After graduating from high school in Des Moines, Greg joined the United States Air Force and was stationed in Wichita Falls, Texas. It was there that he made his home and remained for the rest of his life. Following his military service, Greg began a 30-year career with the United States Postal Service, retiring in 2008.

Greg was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. He and his wife, Debra, were members of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Greg's family was the center of his life. He loved his family passionately and took great pride in being its patriarch. He was the person who took care of everyone, looked out for everyone, and—when necessary—made sure everyone stayed in line. Greg was, without question, the family's protector and enforcer.

His voice was unmistakable. It could be low, soft, and warm, or it could become firm, strong, and forceful when the situation called for it. No matter which voice he was using, it was his—and it is a voice his family will carry in their memories for the rest of their lives.

Greg had many interests and passions. Perhaps his greatest sporting passion was for the Chicago Cubs. He and Debra traveled throughout the United States, visiting stadiums and ballparks to watch the Cubs play. Those trips created countless memories and adventures that they shared together.

Greg also loved music, and many of his favorite songs will be heard throughout his funeral service, providing one more way for those who loved him to remember him. He was an avid collector of stamps and coins and could often be found working on one collection or the other when he wasn't watching a Cubs game. Greg also loved being outdoors and took great pleasure in growing all kinds of plants and vegetables.

Sports were another important part of Greg's life. In his younger years, he played on both men's softball teams and mixed-league teams. It was while playing on one of those teams that Greg and Debra first met. He later spent many years working as a softball umpire. Greg was also an avid golfer. He taught Debra how to play, and the two of them enjoyed playing together - well, she tried her best and he lovingly tolerated playing with her! - on golf courses across the United States. Like so many of their adventures, golf gave them another way to spend time together and make memories.

Greg is survived by his wife, Debra Kuhlman of Wichita Falls, Texas; his children, Kelly Cardona and husband Jose of Wichita Falls, Texas; Marc Kuhlman of Houston, Texas; Chris Kuhlman of Austin, Texas; Lisa Thames of Wichita Falls, Texas; Laura Moore of Austin, Texas; and son-in-law Chris Thames. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Tyler Thames of Wichita Falls, Texas; Hope Cardona and partner NaShaun Brown of Wichita Falls, Texas; Grace Cardona of Wichita Falls, Texas; Ethan Pak of Wichita Falls, Texas; and Kaden Thames of Wichita Falls, Texas; and his great-granddaughter, Sarina Brown of Wichita Falls, Texas. Greg is also survived by his siblings, Mary Hurley and husband Kevin; Jim Kuhlman and wife Dana; Laure Guisinger; Maggie Lambi and husband Kevin; Janette Nielsen; Diane Rinehart and Rick; and Kerri Leu and husband Ben, all of Des Moines, Iowa. He also loved and is survived by his two precious puppies, Charlie and Missy May. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Angela Kuhlman; his brother, Dan Kuhlman; his sister, Nancy Kuhlman, and his first wife, Susan Kuhlman.

Greg leaves behind a lifetime of memories: baseball games and road trips, golf courses and softball fields, music playing in the background, stamps and coins spread across a table, things growing in the garden, and most importantly, a family he loved fiercely and protected with everything he had.

He was a wonderful man, deeply loved and deeply appreciated. His presence filled a room, his voice could command attention, and his heart was always with his family. Though he is no longer here to watch another Cubs game, tend his garden, work on his collections, or remind everyone who's in charge, the love he gave and the memories he created will remain with his family forever. Greg will be deeply missed and forever loved.