Kurt W. Baumgartner, 75, of Wichita, Kan., a stalwart of the roofing community, passed away on June 13, according to an announcement by the Midwest Roofing Contractors Association.  

Baumgartner spent decades at the helm of Martin Roofing Company, guiding the firm to regional prominence with his unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and integrity.

A past president of the MRCA, in a news release announcing his passing, the trade organization said Baumgartner’s service to the group was marked by “vision and generosity.”

In recognition of his leadership and dedication, he received the Association’s highest honor — the McCawley Award — in 1998. 

Colleagues remember him as a mentor who invested in the next generation of roofing professionals, always ready with practical advice or a word of encouragement on the jobsite.

Born to Jack and Vivian Baumgartner, Baumgartner was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his wife of 50 years, Terri Baumgartner; his children, Erin Baumgartner (Patrick Aldrich), Jack Baumgartner (Amy) and Ann Smith (Chris); his sister, Jan Morris (LB), and brother, Eric Baumgartner (Rachel); and eleven grandchildren.

Throughout his life, MRCA said he balanced his professional pursuits with a deep faith and a passion for the outdoors — whether tending to conservation projects or sharing his famous maxim, “Dogs are like pocketknives; you can never have too many.”

A Celebration of Life service was held on June 19 at Eastminster Presbyterian Church in Wichita. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requested memorials be made to the Kansas Wildlife Federation or to a conservation organization of the donor’s choice. 

Messages of condolence may be shared here.

Our thoughts are with his wife, children and the extended Baumgartner family, as well as his employees and those who had the pleasure of working with him.