Kenneth Kentner

Kenneth Kentner, age 77 of Elkhart, Indiana passed away January 14, 2022.  Ken was born May 23, 1944, in Elkhart to the late Rex and Mildred (Rockenbaugh) Kentner. As a young man, Ken was a Boy Scout and through hard work and dedication, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.  He was a graduated of Nogales HS in Nogales, Arizona and later graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Business.  While at IU, he became a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity and remained lifelong friends with many of his fraternity brothers.  After college, Ken enlisted in the US Air Force where he served his country with honor and pride.

He is survived by his sister, Carol Newcomer (Doug Pippy) and his special niece, Julie Phillips (Michael Edmonson), both of Elkhart; his nephew, Jeff (Julie) Newcomer of Troy, OH; four great nephews and a great niece.    Ken was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother William Kentner.

Services for Ken were private. Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola was entrusted with his care.

Ken Lived in the Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, San Diego, California, and Tampa, Florida before returning to Elkhart. He lived an amazing life full of travel, adventure, laughter and generosity. Ken was a gifted verbal and written communicator who used his talent professionally, personally and in political activism. Ken was also a great storyteller and could recall details of events from decades back that made him a wealth of knowledge.  He closely followed politics and current events for his entire life, including active roles as a campaign manager and volunteer.

Ken was employed with the American Cancer Society for the 1st decade of his career and later for Dupont Pharmaceuticals where he spent the remainder of his career educating physicians while selling lifesaving drugs.  He loved his career and co-workers.

To light a virtual candle, share a story of Ken’s life, or leave a message of comfort for his family, please follow the links provided on the tribute wall tab above.