Karl Ray Stutterheim passed away on September 22, 2025, at the age of 88. He was born on September 16, 1937, in Long Island, Kansas, the only son of Henry and Fanny (Raymaker) Stutterheim.
Karl lived in Long Island until second grade, when he and his parents moved to Phillipsburg, Kansas. He graduated from Phillipsburg High School in 1955, where he was a standout multi-sport athlete, with basketball being his favorite.
He went on to attend Kansas State University, graduating in 1960 with a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. Karl played on the 1955–56 freshman basketball team under legendary coach Tex Winter and alongside All-American Bob Boozer. He was also a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity, where he formed lifelong friendships. During his freshman year, Karl met Connie Benjamin on a blind date arranged by a mutual friend. They married in June 1959 and shared 66 wonderful years together.
After college, Karl began his career at Burns & McDonnell in Kansas City. In 1961, he and Connie moved to Salina, where Karl joined Jarrett Electric Company as an electrical engineer.
In 1974, Karl co-founded Kasa Industrial Controls with partner Sam Sheppard. Known for his honesty, integrity, and deep care for his employees, Karl often helped staff with personal medical expenses and emergencies from his own pocket. He served as president and CEO until his retirement in 2006, after which he devoted his time to family, travel, volunteering at Salina Regional Health Center as “the wheelchair guy,” and playing golf with lifelong friends.
Karl led a full and generous life, actively participating in his church, community, and numerous organizations. He served as a trustee, board member, or volunteer for many groups, including Sunflower Bank, St. John’s Military School, Trinity United Methodist Church, Salina Regional Health Center, Salina Country Club, Southeast of Saline, CAPS, First Tee, and Salina Charities. He was a member of Gridiron. A devoted supporter of Kansas State University, Karl contributed to the KSU Foundation, student scholarships, and the university's athletics programs. He held season tickets from the inaugural season of the stadium in 1968 (now Bill Snyder Family Stadium).
One of Karl’s proudest moments was his 2013 induction into the Salina Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame.
Above all, Karl was known as a kind and gracious gentleman, generous with his time, talents, and resources. He honored relationships by treating everyone with respect and dignity. His warmth and gracious spirit touched every person who met Karl Stutterheim.
Karl was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Fanny Stutterheim.
He is survived by his wife, Connie; daughters Karen Kogler (Duane) of Battle Ground, WA, and Nancy Jorgensen (Steve) of Vancouver, WA; son Dan (Jennifer) of Salina, KS; grandchildren Matthew, Daniel, and Katie Kogler of Battle Ground, WA; Emily Jorgensen of Birmingham, AL; Amy Jorgensen of Vancouver, WA; Ben Stutterheim (Megan) of Salina; Allison Stutterheim of Kansas City; and Gracie Fabing (Tom) of Manhattan. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Liam Morris and Ruth Stutterheim of Salina, and many other loving family members.
The Stutterheim family extends heartfelt thanks to Nat and the Presbyterian Manor staff for their patient and loving care of Karl.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, September 29, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salina. A reception will follow at the Salina Country Club, where friends and family are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Karl’s remarkable life.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Greater Salina Community Foundation, with “Karl Stutterheim Memorial” noted in the memo line.