Chad I. Kimbrough

Chad I. Kimbrough, 51, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on July 5, 1974, in Elkhart, Indiana, Chad was the son of the late Mae and Thomas Kimbrough.

In July 2001, Chad married the love of his life, Jennifer. Together they built a life rooted in faith, commitment, and family. Their daughter, Hannah, was one of Chad’s greatest joys and proudest accomplishments. He was a devoted father who made her education, well-being, and future a priority throughout his life.

Chad graduated from Memorial High School in 1992 and earned a basketball scholarship to the University of Massachusetts Lowell, where he graduated in 1996 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. His love of basketball never faded, and he enjoyed countless conversations with friends discussing the game he followed so closely.

Following college, Chad lived in New York and California before returning to Indiana. He dedicated 26 years of service as a contractor for Barnes & Thornburg. Known for his exceptional work ethic, Chad was often 15 minutes early and never one to leave a task unfinished. His dependability was unmatched. If Chad said he would take care of something, family, friends, and coworkers knew it would be done.

Chad never met a stranger. He loved talking with people, making connections, and sharing stories. His genuine interest in others made everyone feel welcome. He was known for staying engaged in his community and was never shy about sharing his thoughts, often calling the mayor to discuss issues important to him. His friendships were many, and his loyalty to those he cared about was unwavering.

At the age of 50, Chad was diagnosed with cancer. He faced his illness with determination, courage, and faith, enduring treatment until it was no longer effective. Throughout this journey, Chad and his family were blessed by the compassion and dedication of the nurses and staff at the Unity Infusion Center and the nurses of Center for Hospice Care. Their kindness, professionalism, and support provided comfort during an incredibly difficult time. Chad was also blessed with the personal care from his daughter who is a Registered Nurse.

The cancer journey also introduced Chad and his family to many remarkable people who were truly doing God’s work. Whether meeting fellow patients and families in waiting rooms, sitting beside others during treatments, or connecting with members of the community, meaningful relationships were formed that left a lasting impact on their lives.

The Kimbrough family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to their neighbors, whose support, kindness, and presence during Chad’s illness were a tremendous blessing. Their generosity and friendship will never be forgotten.

Chad is survived by his beloved wife, Jennifer; his daughter, Hannah; his brothers, Vincent Kimbrough and Ross Kimbrough; his sister, Nicole Kimbrough; father and mother-in-law, Henry and Lillian Aguilar, two brothers-in-law, Henry (Jessica) Aguilar and Michael (Alberta) Aguilar, three nieces, Maya Coleman, Catalina Aguilar and Melody Lepke, four nephews, Ivan Kimbrough, Michael Aguilar, Henry Aguilar and Ernest Aguilar along with many extended family members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues who will forever cherish his memory.

A visitation for Chad will be held from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm on Friday, June 19, 2026 at the Kaniewski Funeral Home, 3545 N. Bendix Dr. South Bend, IN, a rosary and vigil service will follow at 6:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am the following day at Christ the King Catholic Church. Chad will be laid to rest at Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier, California, during a private family ceremony at a later date.

Chad will be remembered for his steadfast faith, unwavering commitment to his family, strong work ethic, dependable nature, and the kindness he showed to others. He lived a life defined by responsibility, loyalty, and love. His legacy endures in the family he cherished, the friendships he cultivated, and the countless lives he touched along the way.

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