Kenneth Dickard

Kenneth Ray Dickard, known affectionately as Ken to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2024, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, after a courageous battle with COVID and Alzheimer's disease. Born on January 1, 1946, on Galveston Island, Texas, Ken was the first baby to greet the New Year, earning him the title of a "BOI" or Born on Island. His life was marked by love, faith, and an unwavering courage that he carried with him until his last days.

Ken was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force, serving his country with honor and dedication. His commitment to service was a defining characteristic of his life, extending into his personal and professional endeavors. After his military service, Ken continued to impact his community through his work, always bringing a deep sense of loyalty and integrity to everything he did.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Barbara Dickard, with whom he shared a life full of love and partnership. Ken's memory will also be cherished by his brother, David Dickard, his sister-in-law, Alice Dickard, and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews who will miss his guidance and warmth.

Ken's interests were as varied as they were passionate. He found solace in the quiet patience of fishing, often spending hours by the water, enjoying the serenity and challenge it offered. His hands were rarely still, as he was also a talented woodworker. The pieces he created were not only beautiful but were also imbued with the love and attention he put into every project. These interests were not mere hobbies but extensions of Ken's character—his love for creating, his appreciation for nature, and his quiet, reflective spirit.

Those who knew Ken would describe him as loving above all else. His faith was a cornerstone of his life, guiding him through the trials and tribulations with a sense of peace and purpose. Ken's courage was evident in the way he faced life's challenges, never wavering in his optimism or strength of spirit. He was the kind of man who left an indelible mark on the hearts of those he encountered, teaching by example the virtues of kindness and perseverance.

Ken's life was a tapestry of meaningful relationships, steadfast service, and cherished moments. While his family and friends will feel his absence profoundly, they take comfort in knowing that his legacy is one of love and faith—a legacy that will continue to inspire and guide them in the days to come.

As we say goodbye to Ken, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey marked by the joy of giving, and the quiet strength of a man who stood firm in his beliefs and values. Kenneth Ray Dickard's story is one of a life that, though it has come to an end, will continue to resonate through the lives of those who knew and loved him.

In honor of Ken's memory, his family invites those who knew him to reflect on the beauty of a life lived with purpose and to find comfort in the cherished memories that he has left behind. Ken's legacy is not one of sorrow but of a life that was rich in love, laughter, and the grace of everyday moments turned into precious memories. He will be deeply missed, but the light of his spirit will never fade.