June 9, 1944-Sept. 18, 2025
Werner Kuhne passed away on Sept. 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, adventure, and a life lived with curiosity and purpose.
Born on June 9, 1944, in West Germany, Werner began his career at just 13 years old with a tool-and-die apprenticeship, laying the foundation for a lifetime of engineering excellence. From 1962 to 1965, he served as an assistant engineer in the German Merchant Marines, fulfilling his dream of seeing the world.
In 1965, Werner immigrated to the United States and settled in Chicago, where he worked as a machinist. During a road trip in the early 1970s, he discovered Pagosa Springs and knew he had found home. In 1974, he moved his family here and founded Miniature Automation Systems (MAS). As a mechanical engineer, he designed and built specialty machinery for the electronics industry and manufactured precision components, earning the respect of customers and colleagues through his ingenuity, craftsmanship and dedication.
Beyond his work, Werner embraced every opportunity for adventure. A lifelong traveler, he continued checking items off his bucket list well into his 70s, including skydiving and bungee jumping, proving that age was never a barrier to living life to the fullest. He also treasured time spent relaxing on his houseboat at Lake Powell with family and friends.
Werner was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Christine Leada Kuhne. He is survived by his loving wife, Hildegard Kuhne; his son, Maik Kuhne; his daughter, Sandra Kuhne; and many dear friends and loved ones who will cherish his memory.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8, at Werner’s shop, beginning around 11 a.m. and continuing throughout the afternoon. Family, friends and all who knew Werner are warmly invited to gather, share stories and celebrate the remarkable life of a man whose craftsmanship, adventurous spirit and generous heart left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
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