Tim L. Kuenning, age 71
of rural New Bremen, passed away on Sunday, May 7, 2023 at the St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima. He was born on July 12, 1951 in Celina, Ohio, the son of the late Stanley A. and Dona Mae M. (Speckman) Kuenning. On May 1, 1971, he married the love of his life, Marilyn Wiss and she survives in New Bremen. Together they had two sons, Mack (Jill) Kuenning of St. Marys and Luke (Amanda) Kuenning of New Bremen; his grandchildren Nolan, Kole, Reese, Halle, and Reid. Also left to cherish his memory are his sisters-in-law Rosemary Wiss of Minster and Linda Kuenning of New Bremen, a brother-in-law Tom Wiss of St. Marys and several nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, Tim was preceded in death by his brother Scott Kuenning, his mother and father in-law Leo and Eleanor Wiss, and a brother-in-law George Wiss.
Tim was a 1969 graduate of New Bremen High School and attended The Ohio State University before joining the United States Army Reserve in 1970. He proudly served for 8 years with the engineering division. He was a member of the Church of the Holy Redeemer in New Bremen. In his younger life, Tim was part-owner of Western Ohio Hardware where he worked in the family business. He then was employed by the Village of Minster Electrical Department as a lineman until his retirement. Tim was a chainsaw sculptor extraordinaire and was noted for saying, “I see something in the wood and just cut away everything that’s not supposed to be there”. He traveled across the United States for the Poulan, Jonsered, and Husqvarna companies. Tim was known for his kindness and willingness to donate his sculptures and time to many charitable causes throughout the local communities. He served as Grand-marshal of the 2002 Bremenfest for giving back to the community. He was a member of the New Bremen American Legion, NB Rod & Gun Club, Home Benefit Association, and President of the Auglaize County PERI Association. Tim was a member of the Mad River Mtn. Ski patrol for 25 years. In his spare time, Tim enjoyed taking motorcycle trips with Marilyn; hunting, fishing, and trapping; working on his motorcycles and his 1934 hot rod. He was an accomplished pilot who flew for enjoyment, family vacations, and business. Tim was very much a family man and was especially proud of his grandchildren and enjoyed watching them participate in their various activities. He will be remembered for his sense of humor, generosity to others, and ability to make people laugh with his quick wit.
A Funeral Mass to celebrate Tim’s life will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 10:30 A.M. at the Church of the Holy Redeemer in New Bremen with Rev. Fr. Mark Hoying and Deacon Mr. Greg Bornhorst officiating. Calling Hours will be held on Friday, May 12, 2023 from 3:00 until 7:00 P.M. at the Gilberg-Hartwig Funeral Home in New Bremen, and again on Saturday morning, one hour prior to the services at the church. Memorial contributions in Tim’s memory can be made to the New Bremen Fire Department (214 N. Washington Street, New Bremen, Ohio 45869). Memories and condolences can be shared with the family on the funeral home website: www.gilberghartwigfh.com.