Phillip Kluhsman

Phillip Kluhsman, 65, of Kearney, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at St Luke’s North Hospital.

Phillip was born on July 11, 1961, in Lockwood, Missouri, the son of Melvin and Norma (Baker) Kluhsman.

Phillip attended Immanuel Lutheran School and Lockwood High School, where he studied Auto Mechanics and played on the Lockwood Tigers basketball team. He was also a member of the Lockwood Boy Scouts and FFA.  Later he attended Okmulgee Technical College, where he received a Diesel Mechanics Degree.

Phillip was known for his quick wit, sense of humor, intelligence, and positive attitude.  Tall in stature and big in personality, he was knowledgeable, innovative, organized, and always willing to help. Friendly by nature, Phillip could talk to just about anyone and had a way of making people laugh wherever he went.

A devoted husband and father, Phillip, was especially proud of his two daughters and his 41 years of marriage to his wife, Starla.  He also took great pride in his strong work ethic and his 21 years with AE Dairy, where he oversaw the diesel mechanic shop, and his dependable nature was reflected in an outstanding attendance record.

Phillip enjoyed NASCAR racing, Chiefs football, fishing, horse shoes, spending time at the farm, woodworking, and being outdoors. He could often be found working in his garden or tinkering with cars alongside his family.  

He enjoyed the Andy Griffith Show, science fiction, playing cards with friends and a good fame of Monopoly-especially when he was winning. Gilligan’s Island held a special place in his daily routine, and he went to bed watching the show every single night.  He also enjoyed a cold Busch Light.

Some of his family’s favorite memories include attending races together, fishing, working on cars, watching movies, and the many projects Phillip could seemingly always figure out how to fix.  He was a natural problem-solver who was willing to lend a hand whenever someone needed him.  His joking personality and ability to make everyone laugh will be deeply missed.

Phillip is survived by his wife of 41 years, Starla Kluhsman; daughters, Felisha Sackrey and Andrea Handler and husband, Korey; three brothers: Mel Kluhsman, Jr. and wife, Sharon; Ray Kluhsman and wife, Kelly; and Mike Kluhsman and wife, Doreen; cousin and best friend, Bruce Pond, along with other extended family members and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Norma Kluhsman; and niece, Colbey Oglesby.

Two funeral services will be held, the first being on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 4 to 4:30 p.m. at Hidden Valley Funeral Home of Kearney, 925 E State Route 92, Kearney, Missouri, with visitation immediately following at the funeral home.  

The second service will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Lockwood, Missouri, with visitation from 1 to 2 p.m. and funeral service to follow.