Norman Kurt Kuhlmann - Major USMC- Retired

Norman Kurt Kuhlmann – Major USMC Retired

Our treasured father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend, Norman Kurt Kuhlmann, 90, left us to go home to our Lord, on July 25th, 2026.

Norm was born in Castana, Iowa, to Frederick W.E. Kuhlmann and Onica Zeona (Bauslaugh) Kuhlmann on February 23rd, 1936. When Norm was young, the family came west, following work in the farming industry and made their way to Yakima.

While attending Franklin Junior High School, in 1951, at the age of 15, Norm met Joycelyn Juanita (Detty) Kuhlmann, and they would later marry in May of 1956.

Instead of continuing his education in the civilian sector, Norm joined the United States Marine Corps at the tender age of 17. He was aboard ship, on his way to Korea, when the Marine Corps realized they could not put an underage minor on the battlefield. So, instead he was assigned to his first duty station in Hawaii, serving in the Military Police Squadron. From there, Norm went on to become a Drill Instructor at MCRD, San Diego for several tours to eventually become a Drill Instructor’s, Instructor. The majority of his promotions being meritorious, it became clear that Norm was a born leader and a man of integrity. To this end, the Corps sent him to and through many layers of training; where he most often scored highest in the class and was retained to train subsequent classes that followed him. He maintained that his favorites and most instrumental to his development as a Marine were Military Leadership and the United States Naval Justice School.

After 14 years as an enlisted NCO, Norm was awarded a Field Grade Commission to 2nd Lieutenant and deployed to the Republic of Vietnam as an Infantry Platoon Commander. During his combat service, he distinguished himself through exceptional courage and leadership, earning the Bronze Star Medal with Combat” V” device for heroism, the Republic of Viet Nam Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star, the Presidential Unit Citation and the Purple Heart with Gold Star (Second award) for wounds received in action.

Following wounds sustained in Vietnam, Norm attended Embarkation training and was subsequently assigned as an Amphibious Embarkation Operations Officer. Upon returning to the United States, he retained his commission and continued to serve with distinction for another 11 years. He retired from the United States Marine Corps, concluding a remarkable 25-year military career distinguished by valor, leadership and unwavering dedication to his country. Once home in Yakima, Norm worked for Graham Morris, Co. in many capacities before retiring from this second career with the Teamsters at the age of 53.

Norm and Joyce were long-time members of Westside Church and served in many capacities there. They greeted members twice a month for 14 years and counted tithes and offerings every Monday for 7 years. They also assisted with collecting offerings and served as ushers. Norm also drove the church bus and transported senior citizens to and from Sunday services.

Norm is preceded in death by the love of his life and life partner, Joyce, his son, Norman “Kurt” Kuhlmann, Jr., his parents, Willie and Onica Kuhlmann and his three brothers, Richard, Jim and Roger Kuhlmann. He is survived by daughters, Beckie Laurin, Kathy Casel, six grandsons, eleven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held Saturday, August 8th at 10:00am at Tahoma Cemetery (1802 Tahoma Ave). A reception will follow at Westside Church (6901 Summitview Ave, Yakima).

Shaw & Sons Funeral Home is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.shawandsons.com.