Joseph A. Kidwell

Joseph A. Kidwell, known to those who cherished him as AJ, was born on June 25, 1980, in Marion, Indiana. He passed away on March 10, 2026, in Van Buren, Indiana.

AJ built a career marked by dedication and leadership, serving as General Manager at the Dairy Queen in Gas City and later as Regional Manager at Wing Stop. Those who knew him best remember his twisted sense of humor and his irrepressible love of pranks and practical jokes that filled rooms with laughter. The playful bond he shared with his brother was evident in stories like the time his brother super glued AJ’s foot to the floor, a memory that captured his mischievous zest for life.

Above all, AJ was a devoted family man whose greatest joy came from spending time with his children, Lilly, Jacob Cuevas, and Joseph Kidwell II. To them he was a steadfast companion and loving father who shared in their laughter and guided them with unwavering affection. His wife, Cristina Kidwell, stood beside him as a partner of strength and deep love throughout their years together.

He found peace in the quiet of nature while fishing and delighted in the immersive worlds of video games, a pastime that connected him closely with his children and friends. AJ was the beloved son of Carl Loftis Jr. and Natalie White, and was lovingly embraced by his stepfather, Wesley White. He is also survived by his maternal grandparents, Larry and Judy Berry; his brother, Carl Loftis III; his nephew, Lincoln Loftis; his mother-in-law, Ruth Cuevas; and his aunt, Diane Sailors. He carried the memory of his father-in-law, Herman Cuevas, with reverence.

AJ’s authentic spirit, mischievous grin, and warm embrace of family created memories that will continue to live in the hearts of his wife, children, parents, brother, and all who were fortunate to know him.