Kermit Kuhns

Kermit grew up on a dairy farm in the beautiful Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts. Even as a child, he was known for his easygoing nature—enjoying sports and school plays with a natural charm, even if academics weren’t his favorite. His upbringing taught him the values of hard work and responsibility; lessons he carried with him throughout his life.

After completing a year at a boys’ prep school following Marlborough High, Kermit joined the US Air Force, where he served as an officer and pilot. His military service took him to places like Texas, Greenland, Iceland, and Vietnam—a testament to his dedication and sense of duty. In Vietnam, on his very first night in Saigon, he found comfort and strength in reading Psalm 91. That quiet moment helped steady him through challenging times, and he returned home safely, carrying that experience with him throughout his life.

Kermit’s life was also marked by his devotion to family. Recently after embracing his Christian faith, he met Clara Jean Cason at a local Baptist church in Selma. Their connection grew quickly, and they were married after just a few months—a decision that led to 42 years of partnership and the joy of raising three daughters. Their life together was simple yet full of genuine love and shared purpose.

After retiring from the Air Force at 38, Kermit ventured into entrepreneurship in San Antonio, Texas. Whether opening a Spring Crest Drapery franchise, a dry-cleaning business, or a Fas-Lube location, he approached each challenge with thoughtful practicality. Even his inventive spirit shone through in small details like a sliding cover designed to keep customers safe. While not every venture was smooth, he faced each setback with the same resilience that had defined his military service.

Throughout his life, Kermit was known for his steady kindness and willingness to lend a hand. He served as a Sunday School teacher, a deacon, and volunteered in many areas, always ready to offer support or share a kind word. Even after the loss of his wife, he continued to find purpose in his community work, including a mission trip to Guatemala and volunteering with World Impact.

It was at World Impact where Kermit was to meet the lady that would share his passion for serving the Lord until the end of his life. This lady was Velda Harvey and after a short courtship they were married February 28, 2004. They shared in ministry at World Impact, Rio Grande Bible Institute, hurricane recovery in New Orleans, 13 projects with Mobile Missionary Organization (from Pennsylvania to Oregon, Iowa to Mississippi), a mission trip to South Africa, and two church plants in Wichita. Kermit also hosted a men's bible study, served as a Chaplain at Juvenile Delinquent Facility, volunteered at McAdams Academy, was involved with a coffee shop ministry, and mentored many individuals one on one. Kermit's and Velda's blended lives were enriched by sharing 7 children, 46 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren. Kermit enjoyed watching his grandchildren participate in sports and the fine arts.

To watch the livestream of the service, please click the following link: Kermit Kuhns Service Livestream

Memorials have been established with:

Radiant Church
3033 S. Hillside St.
Wichita, KS 67216

McAdams Academy
903 S. Glenn Ave.
Wichita, KS 67213