Michael Ian Patrick Kile, born Aug. 3, 1958, in London, England, died Oct. 14, 2023, in Carmel, Indiana, at the young age of 65.
There are not enough words to describe Michael. How can you sum up such a multifaceted man in a few paragraphs? Those who knew him were fortunate enough to experience his kindness, honesty, generosity and love. His sense of humor was legendary, his jokes and puns creating laughter wherever they landed. Michael’s positive attitude and willingness to help others extended to family and friends as well as business colleagues who often became friends as well.
Michael grew up in Dublin, Ireland, moving to Indiana at age 17. He arrived in Ft. Wayne with a cardboard suitcase and a few dollars in his pocket. With help from his uncle, Gene Kile, he started a job as a maintenance man in an apartment complex, followed by a position as a lifeguard. No job was too big or small for him to tackle. An opportunity to work in the printing industry came along that started him on the road to owning his own business. He liked to tell people he began as a stripper, which always got surprised and amused reactions until he explained he stripped film for prints.
He worked his way up to a pressman, then salesman, then various levels of management, the last being CEO of a large-format printing company. He had always wanted to run the show. As a child he was asked what he wanted to be when he grew up. His answer foretold his future: “I want to be the boss!”
Seeing the industry heading toward digital printing he decided to follow his dream. As was his way, he researched every aspect of what he would need to make his business a success. When searching for the right location, Carmel, Indiana, rose to the top of his list. He and his wife, Rhonda, moved to Carmel in 2007, opening AlphaGraphics on the cusp of a recession. Together they weathered the downturn in the economy until it bounced back. From that point on AlphaGraphics became one of his two passions. He was always quick to add that his other passion was his wife! Smart man!
Both he and Rhonda became involved in the community through business, philanthropy and
friendships. Their immediate neighborhood became their extended family and remains so today.
Michael was an avid tennis player. He formed many lasting friendships at the Carmel Racquet Club and beyond. He was, above all, a gentleman on and off the court. Michael also loved music and books, reading voraciously especially in the last three years when he had more
time away from the business. He was a supporter of the Carmel Clay Public library and took full
advantage of its services. He loved to travel, a love he acquired at a young age. Michael and Rhonda created many wonderful memories embarking on trips to foreign places as well as ones within the US.
He also was an avid lover of music, jazz, rhythm and blues, pop, and, of course, Irish tunes. He and Rhonda supported the Center for the Performing Arts both personally and in business. As season ticket holders they enjoyed many performances at both the Palladium and Tarkington.
Michael was devoted to his family. Eventually his sister, Cheryl, brother Chris and their parents
followed him to the states. Even though he was the middle child he was considered the big brother, always making sure they were happy and well cared for, offering the best advice he could to help them in any way he could.
Michael was devoted to Rhonda and she to him. In their 30-plus years together, through ups and downs, there was never a doubt in their minds that they could always count on each other. They were truly soulmates.
Michael is predeceased by his father, Mack Kile, He is survived by his mother, Valma June Kile, sister Cheryl Kile, brother Christopher Kile (Maria), and his much-adored nephews, Carson and Colin Kile as well as his niece, Caitlin Kile and his uncle Gene and aunt Vangie Kile.
Michael’s wish was that there would be no funeral service. Instead, he wanted a celebration of life, which will be held on one of his favorite holidays as well as his father’s birthday, St. Patrick’s Day March 17, 2024). Details to follow.
In leu of flowers please make donations to The Carmel Performing Arts Center, the Carmel Clay Public Library, WFYI, Life’s Journey Hospice of Avon or the charity of your choice. Please share an antecdote, Michael joke or just a pleasant memory: https://www.arnmortuary.com/obituary/Michael-Kile. If you would prefer to send a card please send it to AlphaGraphics, 1051 3rd Avenue SW, Carmel, IN 46032.
