William “Bill” Kahlenbeck, age 79, of Fort Wayne, passed away on Monday, February 9th, 2026, surrounded by loved ones and his beloved wife of 58 years, Betty. We find comfort and peace knowing that he went right from his family’s arms to the arms of Jesus.

Bill was a devoted Elder of Broadway Christian Church and faithfully served as Assistant Director at My Next Step, a nonprofit organization dedicated to guiding individuals through life transitions toward a more successful and stable path. He found great joy in fishing, golfing, and cheering on the Boilermakers basketball team. Above all else, Bill treasured time spent with his family and friends. Known for his deep faith, he lived his beliefs daily, offering prayer, encouragement, and quiet strength to family, friends, and all who crossed his path.

Bill was born to Bobby and Evelyn Kahlenbeck on January 27, 1947, and grew up in Churubusco, Indiana. He graduated from Churubusco High School in 1965 and later went to Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana where he graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture in 1970.

Bill is survived by his wife, Betty Kahlenbeck (Hand); by his children, Kim (Tom) Rose, Chad (Jodi) Kahlenbeck, and Ryan Kahlenbeck, all of Fort Wayne, Indiana; Six Grandchildren Josh Lothamer, Chaise (Madeline), Cameron (Abby), Faith, Aaron Rose and Rayann; 5 Great Grandchildren and his brother Ned Kahlenbeck, of Churubusco, Indiana. Additionally, though not related by blood to all, he was lovingly regarded by many as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, embracing each of them with guidance, wisdom, and unwavering love.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Jerry, his sister Sharon, and his Granddaughter Alyssa.

We will celebrate his life and legacy with a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 18, at Broadway Christian Church, 910 Broadway, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during public visitation on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., and again on Wednesday, February 18, beginning at 10:00 a.m., all at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Allen County Sheriff’s Department’s Jail Chemical Addiction Program (JCAP). Checks may be made payable to the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, with “JCAP” written in the memo line, and mailed to: Allen County Sheriff’s Department, 715 S. Calhoun Street, Room 101, Fort Wayne, IN 46802.