Richard Lee Kuhlmann

Richard Lee Kuhlmann, 84, formerly of Emporia, Kansas passed away peacefully on May 6, 2026, at Andover Court Assisted Living in Andover Kansas, surrounded by his loving family.

Richard was born on May 25, 1941, in Emporia, the son of Paul and Regina Schaefer Kuhlmann. He was united in marriage to Wilma Stiner on June 19, 1965, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Richard is survived by his wife, Wilma Kuhlmann of Andover; one son, Ron Kuhlmann of El Dorado; two daughters, Lori Hurt and husband Dean of Parker and Kerri Krell and husband Eric of Castle Pines; seven grandchildren, Haleigh Palser, McKenzie Kuhlmann, Ethan Hurt, Carsen Krell, Maddox Kuhlmann, Ashlyn Krell, and Graysen Krell; and four great-grandchildren, Luke Hurt, Calla Hurt, Mason Hurt, and Hayden Palser, who is expected soon. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Bill Stiner and sister-in-law Betty Kuhlmann.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Sonny, Robert, Arnold, and Joe Kuhlmann; and sisters, Dorothy Schmidt and Doris Redeker.

Richard co-founded and operated Modern Air Conditioning in Emporia for 30 years and later founded and operated Burlington Comfort Center in Burlington for seven years. He completed his career at Newman Regional Health Hospital in Emporia. Richard continued his passion for the HVAC industry through contract design work. He served on the Board of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and School, the Buildings Trade Board and was a member of the Knights of Columbus in Emporia.

Richard loved all things family. He invested deeply in his wife, children, and grandchildren. He loved helping others and was known for his kindness, generosity, and the love he shared with so many.

Mass will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Sacred Heart Church in Emporia, Kansas. Burial and celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2026; more information will follow. The rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., Friday, May 15, 2026, at Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home in Emporia, Kansas. Memorial contributions to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital can be sent in care of the funeral home.