Charles Joseph Kamuf

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles Joseph Kamuf, of Owensboro, an accomplished attorney, beloved husband, devoted father, grandfather, and cherished friend. He departed this life on Saturday, November 30th, 2024, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unshakable faith. Charlie was born on April 23rd, 1939, to the late Albert Leo Kamuf and Cornelia Weikel Kamuf. Charlie was passionate about his faith and was a longtime member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

Charlie was a man who approached life with humor, warmth, and a determination to make every day count. Those who knew him often marveled at his ability to bring a smile to any room with his sharp wit and genuine charm. He was well-respected in his legal career, a trusted advocate and counselor whose integrity earned the admiration of colleagues and clients alike, having practiced law for 59 years after graduating from the University of Louisville College of Law in 1965.

His Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life, guiding his actions and inspiring his dedication to serving others. Charlie gave generously to his alma maters, Owensboro Catholic High School and Brescia University, believing deeply in the power of education and the importance of nurturing future generations.

At the heart of Charlie's world was his loving family, who will forever treasure the lessons of love, laughter, and resilience imparted by their father and grandfather. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years, Linda Goetz Kamuf, with whom he shared a bond that was a testament to love and partnership. Together, they raised three children: Karen Kamuf Head (Jody), Charles Joseph Kamuf II (Clint), and Christy Kamuf Hayden (Matt). He is also survived by seven loving grandchildren: Chandler, Caroline, Catherine, Maddie, Christina, Isabella, and Sophia. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Rachael Ann Keelin.

Charlie served as the attorney for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Owensboro and the Regional Water Resource Agency. He was also the former attorney for the Owensboro Riverport Authority and the Owensboro Metropolitan Planning Commission. A dedicated supporter of higher education, he was a current board member and former chairman of Brescia University's Board of Trustees. Additionally, Charlie previously served on the board of St. Benedict's Homeless Shelter and was a board member of The Help Office. He also served as previous chairman of the Daviess County Democratic Party. While he himself was not a farmer, he was extensively involved in agricultural activities, including as co-owner of The Big Independent, Owensboro, Birk, Birk-Holman, Lancaster, Equity, and Reynolds tobacco warehouses.

In the summertime, you could always find Charlie driving through the fields with the windows down and the air conditioning on, looking at the crops.

Though his passing leaves an emptiness in the lives of all who knew him, Charlie's spirit endures in the memories he created and the lives he touched. His family takes comfort in knowing that he now rests in the embrace of the God he served so faithfully.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. Stephen's Cathedral in Owensboro on Thursday, December 5th at 10:00 AM, with a burial to follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, December 4th, at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory in Owensboro, with prayers at 6:30 PM. Visitation on Thursday will be from 8:30 until 9:30 am at the funeral home. Pallbearers include Rod Kuegel, Roger Kamuf, Steve Hayden, Larry O'Bryan, Charlie Moore, and Dr. Jinah Sayed. Honorary pallbearers include Tim Riley, Gates Settle, Tom Lilly, John Stevenson, Jerry Richeson, Billy Mills, Terry Moss, David Hawes, and Tony Clark.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Charlie's memory to Owensboro Catholic High School or Brescia University, continuing his commitment to education and faith.

Messages and condolences for the family may be shared at www.glenncares.com.