Marlin Evan Kuns

Last Updated on August 30, 2026 by Cass County Communication Network

KUNS – Elder Marlin Evan, son of Chester A. and Opal M. (Layman) Kuns, was born July 3, 1942, in a log cabin near Flora, IN. He peacefully passed away at his home in Twelve Mile, IN, on August 26, 2026, at the age of 84 years, 1 month, and 23 days. Realizing his need for a Savior, he was baptized into the Old German Baptist Brethren Church on August 28, 1960, to which he remained faithful, serving the Lord for nearly 66 years. He was married to Janice Eilene Wolf on February 28, 1965. They shared a life of many joys mixed with the trials and burdens that this life brings for over 61 years. This union was blessed with 2 sons and 7 daughters. They lived in the Flora and Deer Creek districts before moving to the Mexico district, where they remained for the rest of his life. Daddy and Mother were called to the Deacon’s office in 1978 and elected to the Ministry in 1982. They were advanced to the full ministry in 1995. Daddy had an ardent love for the Lord and his Church. He had a deep concern for lost souls and did the work of an Evangelist, often saying, “If you’re ready, stay ready, and if you’re not ready, get ready.” His preaching often centered on the Book of Revelation and the beauties of the New Jerusalem. His faithful and tender shepherding of the Mexico district as its presiding Elder will long be remembered. He had a cheerful personality, and his keen wit generated remarks that are frequently quoted. His view of life is captured in a poem which he wrote during a difficult period of his life as a young man.

Oh, how sweet the thought of Heaven,

May its beauties long endure,

May our lives to Christ be given,

As we strive for Heaven’s shore.

He was adept at math and numbers and held jobs as a bookkeeper and carpenter before becoming a mail carrier. His family, with his assistance and guidance, operated a bakery, and he remained involved in it until the end of his life. His health had steadily declined over the past years, and COVID took a real toll on his body. While on a trip to Pennsylvania to attend a funeral, he needed emergency surgery, which took place at a hospital in Johnstown near one of his daughters’ homes. He called for the anointing and it gave him much comfort. He had a strong desire to return to his earthly home. This desire was fulfilled through the generosity and cooperation of many people, who made it possible for him to fly home. He arrived home and spent his remaining time surrounded by his loving family. The surgery was successful, but the strain proved too much for his weakened body.

He is survived by his loving wife; his 9 children: Deborah and Gerald Slothour, Rebecca and Michael Cook, Rachel and Eric Metzger, Aaron and Jennie (Root) Kuns, Elisabeth and Gordon Wray, Sarah and Kent Wray, Anna and Allen Boyd, Andrew and Kendra (Filbrun) Kuns, and Joanna and Neil Gascho; 42 grandchildren; 35 great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Judy Whitaker; in-laws, Lynn and Kay Wolf; brother-in-law, Neil Wolf; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 3 grandchildren: Michele Slothour, Kimberly Metzger, and Eileen Wray; 2 brothers: Melvin and Lee; 6 sisters: Maggie Markley, Sarah Flora, Martha Wolf, Naomi Markley, Eula Miller/Bowser/Flora, and Flora Maxine Kuns; brothers-in-law: Marlin Markley, Carl Flora, Melvin Wolf, Kenneth Markley, Paul Miller, Bob Bowser, Bob Flora, Mark Eldon Wolf, and Charles Whitaker; and sisters-in-law: Phyllis (Miller) Kuns and Miriam (Kimmel) Kuns.

Daddy’s frequent closing remarks came from Revelation 22:17: “…the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”

 

Our family would like to thank everyone for the love and kindness you have shown us during this difficult time. We are grateful for the food, prayers, kind words, thoughtful deeds, and for each of you who came to be with us today. Your love and support have been a true blessing. May God richly bless each of you.

Immediately following dismissal, we will proceed to the church cemetery across the road. Following the burial, all are invited to attend a meal here at this location.

A visitation will be held on Saturday August 29, 2026, in the Old German Baptist Brethren Church near Hoover, IN. The visitation times will be from 10:00 am -12:00 pm & 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm and also from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Saturday at the church.

A funeral service will be held at The Old German Baptist Brethren Church at 10:00 am on Sunday August 30, 2026. A burial will follow at the church cemetery.

You may sign Marlin’s guest book and send condolences to the family at www.gundrumcares.com.