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Kevin Finkel Obituary
03/09/1957 - 05/30/2025
Kevin Bruce Finkel, age 68, of Houston, Texas, passed away Friday, May 30, 2025. Kevin is survived by his son, Samuel Joseph Finkel, from his marriage to Barb Finkel Bennett. He is also survived by his partner, Kathy McGraw, who lovingly cared for him in his final months, and several dear cousins. Kevin was a loving father, an excellent cook, a quick wit, a dedicated volunteer, and a loyal companion who will be sorely missed.
Kevin was born on March 9, 1957, to Ely and Marie Finkel in Ottumwa, Iowa. He graduated from Ottumwa High School second in his class in 1975. In high school, he was a fierce debate competitor.
He graduated from the University of Iowa in 1979 with a bachelor's degree in business administration before attending University of Houston Law Center. He graduated in December 1982 and was a member of the Houston Law Review. He began his law career with the Houston maritime law firm of Royston, Rayzor, Vickery, and Williams, In the early 2000s, Kevin and Brad Hill formed the firm Hill & Finkel. Kevin retired in March of 2025, asking Hill to continue practicing under the firm name. He was described by those who worked with him as incredibly smart, loyal, and always eager to benefit his community through pro bono legal work.
While he had a successful career, Kevin's greatest joy was his son, Sam. Kevin and Sam bonded over rock music and played guitar together, speech and debate, Boy Scouts, the pinewood derby, and their shared sense of humor. Following in his father's footsteps, Sam will become an attorney after he graduates from law school. Besides being an amazing father, Kevin was an ardent supporter of public education and served as a dedicated volunteer in Sam's schools.
Kevin heavily invested in the friendships he made in each period of his life. He stayed in close contact and actively traveled with his Ottumwa friends, several of whom he met in kindergarten, as well as his college and law school friends. His large social network in Houston included his tennis club, the parents of Sam's friends, professional contacts, and dear cousins.
As a lawyer, a father, and a friend, Kevin lived by the motto: It is never the wrong time to do the right thing. We all will miss him dearly.
Memories and Condolences
for Kevin Finkel
Sponsored by Bradshaw-Carter Memorial & Funeral Services - Houston.
8 Entries
Jeffrey Brown
June 7, 2025
Dear Sam,
I was deeply saddened to hear of your father´s passing. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
Our families shared a special bond growing up in Ottumwa, where the small Jewish community drew us all close. I have such warm and vivid memories of Kevin-his intelligence, his generosity, and above all, his deep devotion as a son and brother.
One of my fondest memories goes back to our BBYO days. I was a senior in high school and serving as chapter president when Kevin, then just in 8th grade, joined the group. Despite being so young, Kevin immediately stood out as a natural leader. He stepped up to help plan and lead our events with a calm confidence and genuine spirit that inspired everyone.
That same year, we were given the challenge of hosting the regional convention at Esther K. Newman Camp near Omaha. It was no small task for our size group, but Kevin´s energy, ideas, and support were instrumental in making it a success. I still remember nominating him for the position of Editor-my former role. He was elected by an overwhelming majority, likely the youngest ever to hold that position, and rightfully so. Kevin´s warmth, leadership, and ability to connect with people shone through.
Though I regret not staying in touch as the years passed, I continued to hear of Kevin´s successes and impact. It is clear he touched many lives.
May his memory be for a blessing and a source of strength for you and your family. While we mourn the loss, we also carry forward the love, the laughter, and the light Kevin brought into the world.
With deepest sympathy,
Jeffrey Brown
Kirk Bragg. Clive, Iowa
June 7, 2025
Kevin was a dear friend since 1973, and despite living in Texas most of his life he never lost touch of his Iowa roots, and his pals from the U of Iowa. We will miss you, Kev, and we will keep your memory alive.
Marcia Horovitz
June 5, 2025
Kevin's my first cousin. He's six weeks older than me. We grew up seeing each other at various family occasions. My family rode the train from Denver to Ottumwa to visit them when I was young. That was always fun. We grew closer as adults and he joined as many Horovitz family gatherings in Denver and elsewhere as he could, both happy and sad occasions. He was delighted to be part of the Horovitz sibling reunions when he was able to participate, and we had so much fun when he did! He will be missed more than I can express!
Kent Sanders
June 5, 2025
I first met Kevin after retaining his legal services in defense of some of my Houston area amusement clients over twenty yeaars ago. Thereafter, I considered Kevin a very dear friend foremost, as well as a trusted legal counsel. Kevin was open, gracious, engaging, kind-hearted and witty; but an absolute pitbull in defense of his clients. I met Sam at a nephew's graduation hog roast in Houston in 2010, and Kevin and I traded stories and updates on our kids' mutual progress through life's journey up through our last conversation last month. Kevin was so very proud of Sam, and I know his biggest wish was t be there when Sam graduates and hangs his shingle. Somehow, I am sure he'll be there and Sam will continue to make Kevin very proud. Many prayers to Sam, Barb & Kathy. We will miss him.
Ben A. Donnell
June 5, 2025
Kevin was a special person. It was my good fortune to have known him. He will be missed.
John Clarke
June 5, 2025
Rest in Peace Kevin!
Mea
June 5, 2025
I´m so sorry for your loss. I am praying for you all. Please know that your loved one is safe in God´s memory (Proverbs 14:14,15). Just as he brought his son Jesus back to life, he will do the same for your loved one. May God give you comfort and strength to help you cope during this difficult time.
Murtaza Sutarwalla
June 4, 2025
Kevin was a true gentleman, and beloved father to Sam. I will miss his smile and good cheer. May his memory be for a blessing.
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Bradshaw-Carter Memorial & Funeral Services
1734 W. Alabama St., Houston, TX 77098
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Bradshaw-Carter Memorial & Funeral Services - Houston1734 W Alabama St, Houston, TX 77098
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