Kyle J. Hames

October 17, 1974 - March 8, 2024

Kyle J. Hames, beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend passed away peacefully on March 8, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family. He was 49.

Born in Port Washington, Wisconsin, he grew up in the Forest Lake, Minnesota area, and later resided in Arden Hills, Minnesota. He was the first in his family to graduate from college (UW-Stout) and shortly after landed his “Golden Ticket” dream job as a graphic designer at Charles S. Anderson Design in Minneapolis. Immensely creative and laser-focused, he would eventually launch his own successful graphic design business, Kyle Hames Design, in 2013. His proudest moments in life were his marriage to wife Michele and the birth of their daughter Clara.

Kyle, with his radiant smile and prominent dimples, had a passion for people and making them feel special and appreciated. He was warm, witty, and kind-hearted, and made a point to make someone smile each day. He was committed to bringing beauty, joy, and play to the world. He was one of those people who was naturally gifted and good at everything. Those who knew him share a common sentiment: “Whatever Kyle touched turned to gold.”

His passion for creativity extended to every facet of his life here on earth. Kyle’s artwork fills the pages of his high school yearbook. He designed the wedding rings he and Michele wore and created all of the beautiful details for their wedding. He graciously designed tattoos for family members, created lasting images for many of the brands seen on store shelves today, and had the ability to turn simple everyday things into creative works of art.

In addition to skiing, wakeboarding, running and biking Kyle enjoyed board games, movies and was an avid fan of Star Wars. Most of all, he loved crafting with and for his daughter, building spectacular cardboard creations for her birthday parties and hand-making elaborate costumes and decorations for Halloween (his favorite holiday). He was always sure to document any special event with his one-of-a-kind keepsake videos.

His favorite Marvel character was Captain America, because “despite all the obstacles he faced, he always remained noble and kind,” a trait Kyle himself displayed throughout this life.

He is remembered and cherished by his wife and best friend, Michele; daughter, Clara; parents, Daniel & Mary; brother, Jacob; sister, Kellie; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Preceded in death by grandparents, Joseph & Beverly, Leon Altenbach, Doris Stuht; honorary grandmother, Shirley Wagner.

SendOff Details

Kyle’s life will be celebrated with a SendOff from 1 to 4 PM on Sunday, April 21, 2024, with a service beginning at 2 PM at Vadnais Heights Commons, 655 County Rd F E, Vadnais Heights.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations of any amount to Glioblastoma Foundation or Inheritance of Hope.