Roll Call Tribute

Arnold Sidney "Sid" Kahla 

November 27, 1936 - August 13, 2024 

A. Sidney “Sid” Kahla, a cherished member of the South Texas community, passed away on August 13, 2024, at the age of 87. Born on November 27, 1936, in Galveston, Texas, Sid grew into a remarkable individual whose dedication to his craft and community left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Sid was a proud graduate of Sweeney High School, class of 1955, and furthered his academic pursuits at Texas A&M University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Animal Husbandry in 1963. With an unwavering spirit and a passionate heart, he embarked on a fulfilling career that would see him make significant contributions to the world of livestock. In 1972, Sid moved with his family to South Texas to work as a classifier for the Santa Gertrudis Breeders' International. His commitment to excellence and his considerable expertise allowed him to travel extensively throughout the United States and beyond, sharing his knowledge with fellow breeders and professionals.

In 1977, Sid and his beloved wife, Norma, established the South Texas Western Store in Kingsville, TX. Together, they cultivated a welcoming oasis that became a staple in the community, where deep bonds were forged over shared stories and experiences.

Sid's life was enriched by a profound connection to livestock and the rodeo lifestyle. As a devoted member of the RCA, the precursor to the PRCA, he showcased his skills through calf roping, bull dogging, saddle bronc riding, and bull riding, earning numerous awards and coveted buckles throughout his competitive years. Known especially for his prowess in saddle bronc riding, Sid gained the respect and admiration of his peers and competitors alike. He also practiced his talents as a professional livestock judge, lending his keen eye and expertise to major livestock shows across the Southwest United States.

Upon retiring, Sid found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. He cherished time spent with his family, reveling in the laughter and warmth of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His love for cattle, nurtured over decades, continued as he tended to his herd in Bishop, TX, while also indulging in his passion for hunting, each moment steeped in the peace that nature afforded him.

Sid leaves behind a profound legacy of integrity, dedication, and love that will forever resonate within the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to call him family and friend. His spirit shall endure through the lives he touched, the stories shared, and the memories crafted along the way.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Arnold Sieves and Ora Ellen (Crainer) Kahla.

Among those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 62 years, Norma Lynn (Bissett) Kahla; children, Donna Clark, Sidney (Katie) Kahla, and Annette (Buck) Thompson; sister, Sarah (J.W.) Dueitt; grandchildren, Heather (Fernando) Quiroga, Courtney (Kevin) Mattina, Tye (Shelby) Thompson, Andrew Clark, Ryan (Katie) Clark, Case Thompson, Clay Kahla, and Carson Kahla; great-grandchildren, Bailey Quiroga, Cody Mattina, Calvin Mattina, Lane Quiroga, Audrey Thompson, and Eden Thompson; goddaughter, Keley Bissett; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

A visitation, where the family will receive condolences, will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 19, 2024, at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary, 205 General Cavazos, Kingsville, TX.; with a chapel service to be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. A rite of committal and interment will follow at Restland Memory Park, in Bishop, Texas.