With profound love and deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Thomas Niel Kempf Sr., who left this world peacefully on April 20, 2025, at the age of 73, surrounded by those who cherished him most. Thomas, a lifelong resident of Mishawaka and Osceola, Indiana, was born on July 13, 1951, to William Ellsworth Kempf Sr. and Val Jean (Smith) Kempf. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Thomas lived his life with great joy, endless humor, and an open heart that touched everyone lucky enough to know him.

Tom's story is one defined by love—love for family, friends, sports, life's simple pleasures, and above all, for his soulmate, Margaret (Peggy). On May 12th, many years ago, he married Peggy, the girl who stole his heart and held it for more than five decades. Their 52-year marriage was built on unwavering devotion, friendship, and the kind of love that inspires those around them. Though Tom famously showed up fifteen minutes late to their wedding, it was the only time in his life he was ever late when it truly mattered. From that day forward, he showed up every day, without fail—with laughter, love, and loyalty. Their marriage was a living example of partnership, and Peggy was his greatest pride and truest companion.

Tom was the kind of father every child hopes for. Steady, supportive, and endlessly fun. He raised his children—TJ (Kirsten) Kempf and Steve Kempf with patience, humor, and fierce devotion. He was their hero, mentor, biggest fan, and their safe place. Whether it was a long phone call to catch up, a joke to brighten their day, Tom had a way of making his children feel deeply loved and understood. His hugs were the kind that made the world feel right and his words carried the kind of love that stayed with you.

To his grandchildren—Allyssa Kempf, Sydney Kempf, Hanna Kitkowski, Courtney (Kempf) Hayes, Skylar Kempf, and Rylan Kempf—Tom was more than a grandfather. He was so proud of his grandchildren. He always showed affection, encouragement and would boast about them every time an opportunity presented itself. Every moment spent with him was an adventure, full of laughter, learning, and love. His legacy lives on in their hearts, in their values, and in the sparkle in their eyes when they talk about him.

Sports were Tom's great passion and his playground for connection. A gifted athlete, he played softball until he was 55 years old with both skill and heart. As the years passed, he never lost his competitive spirit or his love for the game. When he retired from the game of softball, he left everything he had on the field, but the amazing part of the story is more about what his former teammates and competitors still say about him. He was a legend to his sons and Steve was most thankful for his opportunity to play softball with his Dad. He knew how great he was as a player, but most importantly, he got to see how great of a teammate he was on the field. Tom was always up for a round of golf, especially with his sons, where the real victories came not in the scorecards but in the time spent side-by-side, sharing stories and jokes with every swing. Tom was also an avid deer hunter, often venturing into the woods with his son TJ, where the stillness of nature became a sacred space for father and son. Their competitive spirit often came out in this sport but the real wins were all about spending quality time together.

Tom was a beloved and familiar face at Bowlers Country Club, where he spent countless hours in the company of good friends. To say he was the life of the party would be an understatement. Tom brought joy wherever he went. He had a gift for humor, a mind full of witty one-liners, and a way of making people feel seen and welcomed. Whether he was holding court over a drink, telling an outrageous story, or sneaking in a well-timed joke, Tom's laughter was the kind that echoed loud, real, and unforgettable.

He was a man who never said no to fun. If there was an adventure to be had, Tom was the first to jump in and the last to leave. He embraced life with a sense of spontaneity and joy that was infectious. He made everything more fun just by being there, and he never backed down from a silly idea or a spontaneous moment. He loved deeply, laughed freely, and lived fully.

Tom was also a man of deep comfort and reassurance. His wife found peace in his steady love and frequent "I love you." His children found safety in his presence, knowing they could call anytime and be met with his familiar voice and his unshakeable support. His grandchildren found joy in his eyes and strength in his embrace. Tom was a source of light to so many and losing him leaves a void that can never truly be filled.

He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Val Jean Kempf, and by his brothers, Butch Kempf and Denny Kempf. Though their absence was felt deeply during his life, Tom carried their memories with him always and spoke of them with love, pride, and reverence.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Margaret (Peggy) Kempf; his children, TJ (Kirsten) Kempf, Steve Kempf, and his adoring grandchildren, Allyssa Kempf, Sydney Kempf, Hanna Kitkowski, Courtney (Collin) Hayes, Skylar Kempf, and Rylan Kempf. Each of them carries a piece of him in their hearts, and each will continue to honor his memory by living as he did—with love, laughter, and an open heart.

The family extends their deepest thanks to Kathy and everyone from the Center for Hospice, all the doctors and nurses and to Lori Kitkowski for their incredible care, compassion, and support during Tom's final days. Their kindness made all the difference in this difficult time.

Thomas Niel Kempf Sr. was one of a kind. He lived with joy, led with love, and left behind a legacy that will echo for generations. We will miss him every day, but we are endlessly grateful for the time we had and the memories he gave us.

In accordance with Tom's wishes, there will be no formal services. His life will be celebrated not with somber ceremonies, but in the ways he loved best—in backyard gatherings, on golf courses, around bonfires, and in the stories told over laughter and clinking glasses. His family encourages everyone to remember Tom by doing something he would've loved: play catch with your kids, share a drink with a friend, tell a great joke, or hug someone a little tighter. That's how Tom lived. That's how he would want to be remembered.

To leave a message for the Kempf family please go to https://www.chapelhillmemorial.com/