Gerald Duane Kachel

Gerald Duane Kachel 90, died January 9, 2024 at his residence with his wife by his side.

Gerald, some called him “Jerry”, while his family called him “Duane” was born January 24, 1933 in the family farm house in rural Graham County, Kansas. He graduated from Hill City high school. After high school Gerald joined the Air Force. Serving from 1952-1956.  He eventually found his way to California where he attended California State University Northridge in Los Angeles.

It was in LA on a blind date, arranged by one of Gerald’s friends that he met Evalyn “Lyn” Torres. The following Sunday Evalyn found Gerald in her mother’s kitchen surrounded by her family. With Evalyn’s fathers approval they began dating in January of 1957 and were then married in July.

Gerald continued his education in engineering and went to work for Hughes Aircraft Company. Here he worked on the F-106 fighter jet. The F-106 still holds the record as the fastest single-engine turbojet-powered airplane (Mach 2.41).

The Kachel’s moved to various places for Gerald’s job, including New Mexico. It was in New Mexico where they started their family having two sons. Eventually, Gerald’s job would move them to London, England. This move would lead to many traveling adventures.

After Gerald retired, the couple studied French, moved to France for a year. They were blessed with the ability to travel to many wonderful locations. They visited countries throughout Europe, the Nordic region, the Middle East and Egypt. An unforgettable train ride through Italy to see the Vatican and the Pope. For their 50th anniversary, they enjoyed a cruise that included stops in Sweden and Russia. Prior to moving to Kansas the couple enjoyed retirement in Florida. 

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents Jay & Goldie Kachel, brother Herald Kachel and sister Elaine Wudtke. He leaves behind his beautiful wife Lyn, sons Dennis James of Norton, Ks. and David Patrick of Larkspur, Co. and one sister, Shirley Baugus of Newton. As well as two grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held at Petersen Funeral Home, Thursday, 5pm – 8pm on January 18, 2024. Recitation of the Holy Rosary will begin at 6pm, with Father Bergkamp officiating.

Memorials may be made out to St. Mary’s Catholic Church and left in the care of Petersens Funeral Home.