Theodore (Ted) John Kiene

Theodore (Ted) John Kiene, beloved husband, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully at home in Gilbert, AZ, on September 12, 2025, surrounded by his beautiful wife and family members after 90 years of adventures.

Ted was born on December 1, 1934, to Theodor Johannes Hans Kiene and Pauline Bruce Kiene in Amarillo, Texas. His older brother, George, readily took him in, and the little family of four became very close. Because his father’s work as a civil engineer took them to many locations across the country, George and Ted became more than brothers; they were each other’s best friends.

Attending schools in Ajo, Tucson, and Tempe, Arizona, Ted also loved to explore and would often hike for miles on his own, investigating less populated areas near his home. Passionate about sports, Ted tried out for many different teams and discovered he had a unique capability: he could run faster than anyone else in his school. Capitalizing on this rare talent, Ted received a full-ride scholarship to run track at Arizona State College (now ASU). He competed well, maintained his grades, and graduated with honors in 1956.

But Ted’s greatest achievement in college was meeting a talented young woman in an art class, Shirley Ann Weber. They began dating, but Shirley had two more years to go, and Ted needed to move forward. He joined the Army, and they corresponded for the next two years. Ted and Shirley were married on March 18, 1961, with a light snowfall in Sedona, Arizona, and have been inseparable ever since. Shirley proved to be the perfect hiking companion as they both took to the trails across the country and captured their exploits in the photos and art that adorn their home. Ted was a cartographer in the military, which served him well in his career as a construction designer and building inspector for large civil projects.

Ted leaves a legacy of endurance, hard work, good decisions, and good humor that has blessed his life and the lives of the many who know him. 90 years young, Ted is survived by his bride, Shirley Ann Weber Kiene, and will be remembered as an astonishing athlete, ever strong and still running to the end.

Services will be held on Wednesday, September 24, at 9:30 am at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, 2929 E Pinnacle Peak Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024. Because Ted will receive full military honors, please arrive early to enjoy the 30-minute service.

The family wishes to express gratitude for the love and support of friends and loved ones during this tender time.

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.