Kent Roy Rindfleisch

Kent Roy Rindfleisch, age 78, passed away on August 20, 2026, peacefully in his sleep. He was born on January 21, 1948, to Clarence and Margaret Rindfleisch in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Kent proudly served his country as a Vietnam Veteran of the United States Army. His military service was an important part of his life and reflected the strength, dedication, and commitment with which he approached so much of his journey.

Kent is survived by his three children, Kimberly Roberts (James), Kristopher Rindfleisch (Crystal), and Kayla Skillman (William). He was a proud grandfather to Hannah, Rylan, Makenzi, Reese, Tristan, Ethan, Brooklyn, and Kayleigh, and a great-grandfather to Aubrey and Waylon. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were not simply his family, they were his heart and the legacy he leaves behind. Kent is also survived by his sisters, Kairle Wright and Deborah Cornick, as well as extended family and those who knew and cared for him throughout his life. His sister Kathy Wilber preceded him in death.

Kent loved his family more than anything in this world. Family was everything to him. He gave all of us everything he possibly could, even when it meant going without himself. That was simply who Kent was—selfless, loving, generous, and always there when his family needed him. There was never any question about how deeply he loved them, and the countless ways he showed that love throughout his life will remain with his family forever.

Kent was also known for his wonderful sense of humor and his ability to always know just the right thing to say, no matter the situation. Those who knew him would undoubtedly remember one of his favorite reminders about the two rules in his house: Rule number one was that Kent was always right. Rule number two was if anyone thought Kent was wrong, they need to refer back to rule number one. He would say with a big smile across his face that riding his motorcycle was all the therapy he would ever need. Kent wanted to be remembered for all the joy he brought and asks that we all celebrate his life without mourning.

Kent was a beacon of light for his family and everyone who was fortunate enough to know him. Within his family, he proudly held the titles of Brother, Son, Father, Padre, Papaw, and G-Paw. Above all else, he was their rock, their glue and their safe place, regardless of his own personal struggles. He loved his children unconditionally, celebrating them fully and offering endless forgiveness. Entirely selfless, Kent was always ready to help anyone in need at a moment's notice no matter the time or day. He was the jolliest person you could meet, and no matter what you could always count on seeing his rosy red cheeks every time he smiled. His vibrant sense of humor never went unnoticed; it was magnetic, gravitating to anyone fortunate enough to be around him. His wisdom was always spread with love, compassion, empathy and kindness that will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

While his passing leaves an emptiness that cannot be filled, the love he gave so freely remains. That love lives in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, in the lessons he taught through his actions, in the laughter he brought into their lives, and in the stories and memories his family will carry with them.

Kent gave so much of himself to the people he loved, and that may be the greatest measure of his life and his legacy.

May he rest in peace, surrounded by the same love he gave so generously throughout his life.

A graveside funeral service honoring Kent’s life and military service will be held on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC 29229.

Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family.