Submitted by: John C. Monk

 

Hiram A. Kamp

 June 1, 1919 - Mar. 31, 2010
SOUTH BEND - Hiram A. Kamp, devoted husband, father, and friend, passed away March 31, 2010. He lived a wonderful life of nearly 91 years. Everyone marveled at his life, how great his memory was, and what great conversations he would have with friends and family. At 90, he was still mowing his own yard and taking care of his home. Born June 1, 1919, Mr. Kamp was an honored Army veteran of WWII, where he worked state side on B-29 bomber carburetor problems. He helped to engineer solutions that a letter of commendation that he received from L. C. Craigie Brig. General Army Air Forces stated, "Your part...was essential and significant in the winning of the War." Hiram worked for Bendix Aviation for over 40 years. In 1951, he was sent to Hamilton, Ohio to head up the start of a new Bendix division. In 1962, he was transferred back to South Bend where he worked as the head of quality control until he retired in 1982. Hiram was preceded in death by his wife -the love of his life for 51 years- Vivian Wensel Kamp. Left to cherish his memory are two children, Michael (Connie) Kamp of Hamilton, OH, and Karen (Herb) Kamp Blank of Muncie, IN; four grandchildren, Kathy (Craig) Wilms of Hamilton, OH, Kris (Jeff) Brandner of Hamilton, OH, Mindy Williford of Kansas City, KS, Matt (fiancé, Mandy Reece) Williford of McCordsville, IN; and two step-grandchildren, Ashley (Mark) Rodriguez of Portland, OR, and Tyler (Chelsea) Blank of Noblesville, IN. Mr. Kamp also had 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Left to cherish his memory are also very special friends, Mary Chambers, John and Kris Jenkins, and Jack and Vivian Samuels. A Memorial Service will be held at Memorial Presbyterian Church on Saturday, April 3, at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Memorial Presbyterian Church, or to St. Vincent de Paul.

Published in South Bend Tribune on April 2, 2010