Thomas L. Kuhn

Thomas Ladean Kuhn, known to all as Tom, passed away on March 10, 2026, at Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, at the age of 88. Born on November 26, 1937, in Newton County, Missouri, to Thomas A. (Gus) and Helen L. (Bettis) Kuhn, Tom was a lifelong resident of the area. He graduated from Seneca High School in 1955 and served in the United States Navy from 1958 to 1962, enlisting under the buddy system with his close friend Dean Taylor. His final posting was as an Aviation Mechanic at the Naval Air Station in Keflavik, Iceland, where he created many lasting memories. Though he served during peacetime, he remained quietly proud of his time in uniform.

In 1963, Tom married Patricia “Patty” Ruth Wehmeier in Seneca, Missouri. She preceded him in death on October 29, 2022. Tom worked for more than 24 years at the BF Goodrich plant in Miami, Oklahoma, before its closure, then continued at Joplin Building Material until his retirement at age 62. He also raised cattle and other farm animals throughout the years. Tom found deep satisfaction in outdoor work on the farm, mowing on his riding lawnmower, fishing, and camping at Roaring River State Park. He looked forward each year to hunting trips in Montana, making more than 45 journeys there—not so much for the hunt itself, but for the friends who became like family. In later years, he enjoyed watching Western movies and following the St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, and Mizzou football. He also took pleasure in collecting old tools and pocketknives, often giving them away to others.

Above all, Tom loved his Savior, Jesus Christ, and lived his faith daily. A lifelong member of Bethel Baptist Church in Seneca, he served as a deacon for 56 years, rarely missing a service and forming enduring friendships with pastors and fellow members. He and Patty shared a special love for Southern Gospel quartet music, watching videos and attending concerts together whenever they could.

Tom is survived by his son, Tony Kuhn of Butner, North Carolina; daughters Leslie Kuhn of Neosho and Lisa Kuhn of Seneca; sister Phyllis Davis of Seneca; brother Dennis (Denny) Kuhn of Wyandotte, Oklahoma; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Though he and Patty had no biological grandchildren, they cherished and claimed numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, and children from church and babysitting as their own. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gus and Helen Kuhn; his brother Larry “Butch” Kuhn; and an infant brother, Morris Kuhn.