Cal Rinehammer, age 93, passed away on July 13, 2026. He was born to the late Reverend Nathaniel and Nora Rinehammer in rural Kentucky.
In addition to his parents, Cal was preceded in death by his wife of seventy-two years, Hedy; his four siblings: Lucille, Ida, Harold and Sam; and his in-laws, Leo and Yolanda
Cal is survived by his daughter Deborah (Anthony) Blake; grandsons Tyson Blake and Trenton Blake; brother in-law Joseph; and, many loving nieces, nephews, close friends, and neighbors.
Born and raised from humble beginnings as the son of a preacher, Cal followed his family to serve new parishes in Kentucky and Indiana throughout his childhood. To supplement the family income, Cal worked multiple daily jobs and developed his tenacious work ethic. After proudly serving in the U.S. Army, he settled in Northwest Indiana and actively turned his childhood hobbies into various careers.
As a young adult, Cal was an avid race car driver. His love of automobiles led him to become an automotive mechanic and eventually opening Cal Rinehammer Motors, a used vehicle sales and repair center in Hammond, IN. Cal used his automotive knowledge to expand his businesses and founded Tyson Motor, which included multiple new vehicle franchises of varying brands throughout Indiana and Illinois. As the founder of Tyson Motor, Cal employed hundreds of talented individuals. He knew every employee by name and actively encouraged and assisted many of them in pursuing their own personal
Cal was a passionate horseman. His love of horses led him to own and operate one of the largest thoroughbred ranches in the Midwest, known for breeding champion racehorses. Cal was also involved with land development. His collaboration in the Watson-Rinehammer Development helped to change the landscape of Highland, IN with the building of Georgetown Condominiums.
An extraordinary man who loved life and the individuals he encountered, Cal will be lovingly remembered for his integrity, wisdom, humility, inspiring spirit, intellect, and his never-ending wit.
Funeral service was private. Memorial contributions to a charity of your choice in his name would be appreciated.
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