Spirit EMS Announces Funeral Arrangements for Paramedic Karl Kleinekathoefer
Source: Spirit EMS
GREENVILLE, Ohio – It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that Spirit EMS announces the unexpected passing of Paramedic Karl Kleinekathoefer, who died while on duty on Aug. 29, 2026, at 5:41 a.m. at the Spirit EMS headquarters.
Karl, 34, had been employed with Spirit EMS since Nov. 23, 2023, and was a valued member of the organization and the communities he faithfully served throughout Western Ohio and Eastern Indiana.
Originally from Mandalong, New South Wales, Australia, Karl dedicated his life to EMS and continually sought opportunities to expand his knowledge and skills. Before relocating to the United States, he earned a bachelor’s degree in paramedicine, which laid the foundation for an accomplished career. Throughout his career, he advanced through the ranks as a Critical Care Paramedic, became a CPR instructor, and most recently completed coursework in Community Paramedicine. His passion for helping others, commitment to lifelong learning, and dedication to excellence in patient care left a lasting impact on his patients, coworkers, and the communities he served throughout Western Ohio and Eastern Indiana.
Outside of EMS, Karl was a talented musician who served as the Sunday morning organist at Reverent Church in Greenville, where he shared his musical gifts and faith with the congregation each week.
Karl was 34 years old and would have celebrated his 35th birthday on August 30, 2026.
"Today, the Spirit EMS family suffered a heartbreaking loss," said Brian K. Hathaway, President/CEO, Spirit EMS. "Karl was more than a paramedic; he was a compassionate caregiver, dedicated public servant, talented musician, and trusted friend. His devotion to serving others was evident in every aspect of his life, whether caring for patients, assisting fellow providers, or serving his church and community. Karl's impact on our organization and the people we serve will never be forgotten. On behalf of the entire Spirit EMS family, we extend our deepest condolences to Karl's family, friends, coworkers, and loved ones in both the United States and Australia. We ask that everyone keep them in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
Spirit Emergency Medical Services invites former patients, fellow first responders, healthcare providers, educators, coworkers, friends, and community members whose lives Karl touched to join the organization in honoring his life and service. Karl's commitment to patient care, emergency medicine, community education, and helping others left a lasting impact both locally and abroad.
A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, at the John and Iris Hathaway Education and Community Center on the Spirit EMS campus at 5484 State Route 49 South, Greenville, Ohio. A funeral service with full EMS honors will follow at 10:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Janie Detling.
Following the service, a formal procession will travel from the John and Iris Hathaway Education and Community Center to Tribute Funeral Homes in Greenville. The procession will provide family, friends, coworkers, and members of the public with an opportunity to pay their final respects before Karl begins his final journey home. From Greenville, arrangements will be made to return Karl to Australia, where formal burial services will be conducted in his home country.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions supporting community First Aid, CPR, and AED education programs, as well as the Spirit EMS Summer EMT Boot Camp for high school students, may be made to the Spirit EMS Community Fund, 5484 State Route 49 South, Greenville, OH 45331.
Spirit EMS extends its sincere appreciation to the community for its overwhelming support and asks that you keep Karl's family in your thoughts during this difficult time.
