Karl Heinz Kunder

Karl-Heinz Kunder (October 30, 1946 - May 4, 2025) grew up on a small farm in Aufkirchen, Germany. As the only son, he was expected to carry on the family farm, but his mother insisted on his education and that he learn how to play the organ. He played in many of the rural churches, earning money for his education. Called to missionary work, he met his wife, Lauralee Fry, while climbing Mt Kilimanjaro during Lutheran Mission Seminary. He served 8 years in Kenya, Africa, 7 years in Medicine Lake, Montana; 8 years in Kainantu, Papua New Guinea, and 8 years in Kendrick, Idaho, before retiring to Spring Lake, near family in Seattle. 

Despite the many challenges of missionary work (tropical diseases, conflicts, protecting family), Karl-Heinz stayed calm and trusted in the Lord. He learned the languages and cultures where he served, listening to and growing in faith with the locals. He was passionate about the ministry, sharing the Good News and helping each congregation with their chosen projects. He is also remembered for creative sermons, plays, and slide shows. 

Karl-Heinz enjoyed baking delicious German foods, gardening (even weeding) throughout the seasons, hiking, finding mushrooms, and hunting. He was a devoted family man and helped raise 4 strong, successful daughters. He was called home after living with Parkinson's Disease. He is survived by his wife of 48 years (Lauralee), daughters Rebekka (Hugo), Andrea (Dan), Karina (Jose), and Pauline (Eugene), and 11 grandchildren. 

You are cordially invited to his memorial at 11 AM on August 2 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Olympia, WA and lunch afterwards. 

Donations can be made to Luther World Relief: https://www.heifer.org/index.html