COLUMBUS
Kenneth Edward Bode, 86, of Columbus, passed away at 12:10 a.m. Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at his home surrounded by family.
Kenneth was born July 27, 1936, in Columbus, Indiana, the son of Chester L. and Edna M. (Burbrink) Bode. On June 23, 1957, he married Bernice L. Schroer. She preceded him in death on November 21, 1986. On June 10, 1988, he married Kyra M. (Seegers) Carothers. She survives.
Kenneth graduated from Columbus High School and then joined the United States Army. He was honorably discharged after his service. Mr. Bode then went to work at Cummins Engine Company for 15 years before becoming the sales representative for Moorman’s Feed Company. He was a lifetime member at St. John’s Lutheran Church where he held positions as an elder and chairman. He was also a foster grandparent volunteer for young children at White Creek Lutheran School. Kenneth loved western movies, traveling out west and vacationing in Florida during the winter months. He was a farmer and a dedicated husband, father, grandfather (attending any events that grandchildren were involved with) and great-grandfather. He will be deeply missed by those that knew him and loved him.
Survivors include children, Kathy (Jim) Kahlenbeck, Max (Robin) Bode, Michelle (Brett) Barnett, Melissa (Mike) Hatton, all of Columbus; step-children, Kevin (Cheryl) Carothers of Fishers, Matthew (Cheryl) Carothers, Becky (Tony) Luenebrink, both of Columbus; nineteen grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren and brother, Keith (Rose) Bode, also of Columbus.
He was preceded in death by his parents and first wife, Bernice L. Schroer.
The funeral service will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at St. John’s Lutheran Church-White Creek with Pastor Channing Kearney officiating. Visitation will be Friday from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Barkes, Weaver &Glick Funeral Home on Jonathan Moore Pike and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.
Burial will be at St. John’s Lutheran Church Cemetery-White Creek. Military honors will be presented by the Bartholomew County Veterans Honor Guard.
Memorial contributions may be made to White Creek Lutheran School.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the Bode family and a video tribute may be viewed at barkesweaverglick.com.
