COLUMBUS
Karl Timothy Graham, age 70, of Columbus, Indiana, passed away on April 7th, 2024.
Karl was born on September 17, 1953, to Betsy Matah Batschelet and Charles Edward Graham in Madison, Indiana. After graduating from Madison Consolidated High School, he went on to graduate from the University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering, where he was in the Sigma Gamma Tau National Honor Society for Aerospace Engineering. While there, he was the teaching assistant for astronaut Neal Armstrong.
Following graduation, he moved to St. Louis, Missouri where he worked on the Delta Rocket program for McDonnell-Douglas. In 1978, he came home to Indiana to work at Cummins engine company, traveled the world for them, and is credited for two patents in the mid-1980s regarding the Engine Value Cover and Lubricant Supply Rail for the mid-range engine. Karl was also an avid baseball fan who thoroughly enjoyed the Braves winning the world series in 2021.
Although everyone will remember Karl for being a literal rocket scientist with a keen intellect and quiet disposition, his family and close friends will remember him for his undying love and devotion to the love of his life, Pamela Jeanne (Cole) Graham. Karl met Pam at the University of Cincinnati and for over 50 years they have been the best of friends. Married in 1975, Karl and Pam taught all of us what true love and strength meant; their love has been the cornerstone for many of our best memories and has been foundational in the development of our character.
Karl is survived by his wife Pam; children Johan (Aimee), Karla (Billy) and Kurt; four grandchildren, Urijah, Noah, Charlie, and Layla; and his sister Betsy (Tim) and brother Louis (Susan). Karl was predeceased by his parents, his brother Phil and his daughter-in-law Briana.
In keeping with Karl’s wishes, the family wishes to have a small and private memorial. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to New Hope Christian Church – 1404 400 North, Columbus, IN 47203.
Arrangements were entrusted to Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home.
