Kenneth L. Grambihler

Kenneth L. Grambihler, age 84, of Clarksville, TN, passed away on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at Tennova Healthcare in Clarksville.  He was born May 22, 1937 in Plankinton, SD, the son of the late Leo Grambihler and Elizabeth Jones Grambihler.  Kenneth served his country in the US Army, retiring after 20 years of service.  He retired with the rank of Major.  His overseas assignments included Germany and both the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War.  He was awarded the Bronze Star, the Air Medal, the Navy Commendation with Valor and a sharpshooter medal.  He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska and his master’s degree from Western Kentucky University.  Following his retirement from the Army, he earned his Ph.D in political science from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, IL.  Kenneth taught at Hopkinsville Community College, Murray State University and Southern Illinois University at Carbondale.  He retired from Austin Peay State University.  Kenneth was a member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Clarksville.  He has served on many boards, including the Montgomery County Historical Society and the Woodard Library.  He was a member of the Retired Officers Association and the Austin Peay Retired Faculty.  He was an active supporter of the Roxy Regional Theatre and the Gateway Chamber Orchestra.  He was a member of the Society of King Charles and a life member and past commander of the VFW post in South Dakota.  He was a connoisseur of the performing and visual arts as he believed they make life worth living.  He was a proud Democrat.  Survivors include two stepdaughters, Kathy L. Watts of Clarksville and Murray Dale Watts of Clarksville.  Also surviving is a brother Michael Grambihler of SD.  Grandchildren include Tiffany K. Norbeck of Clarksville, Kathryn Norbeck-Dayley (Ron) of Clarksville, Morgan K. Bailey (Chuck) of Clarksville, Conner F. Watts of VA and Carson R. Watts of NC.  Great grandchildren include Jude and Jackson Bogle, Taggart and Estella Dayley and Blaez Torres all of Clarksville.  In addition to his parents, Kenneth is preceded in death by his first wife Jean Marie Smith Grambihler and his second wife Estelle P. Richards Grambihler as well as his sons Kenneth Jude Grambihler and John Thomas Grambihler,  a stepson Rip A. Watts, and a grandson Cameron Watts.  Also preceding in death are brothers Adolph Henry Grambihler, James Leo Grambihler and John Anton Grambihler.  Memorial services for Kenneth will be conducted on 19 February 2p.m.  at Trinity Episcopal Church located at 317 Franklin Street, Clarksville, TN.  Immediately following the service will be a reception in the fellowship hall at Trinity Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers donations to the Roxy Regional Theatre, Plankinton Preservation Society (PO Box 367, Plankinton, SD 57368) or Trinity Episcopal Church would be appreciated.  Arrangements are under the care of Gateway Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 335 Franklin Street, Clarksville, TN  37040.  Phone 931-919-2600.  Online condolences may be made by going to www.gatewayfh.com.