Kenneth Howard Mensch

Kenneth Howard Mensch, affectionately known as Ken to his friends and family, passed away peacefully in Parchment, Michigan, after a valiant 25-year battle with cancer. Born in Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania, Ken was a beacon of strength and joy to all who knew him.

Ken is survived by his devoted wife, Robin Mensch, who was not only his life partner but also his best friend and favorite travel companion. Their adventures on the open road were the stuff of legend, creating memories that will be cherished forever. Ken's family was the cornerstone of his life, and he leaves behind a loving circle, including his brother-in-law Joseph Nelson, niece Danielle Bonno, and great-nieces Kehlani and Luciana. Pat and Kathy Nelson, his brother and sister-in-law, nieces Mary and CJ Miranda, and Mary's life partner, will fondly remember his warmth and guidance. Great-niece Kinnley Katherine Miranda, who was taken at the tender age of three to leukemia, held a special place in his heart. His nieces Kourtnie, Blake, and little Madison, along with Timothy Nelson and Susan, his brother and sister-in-law, and nieces Kirsten and Shelby, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins will miss his presence dearly. Ken also leaves behind a host of loving cousins, including Debra Harderson and Orbie, Sylvia Cameron, Michele Renee Trevino and David, and many others whose lives he touched. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louise and Clifford Mensch, who instilled in him the values of love and family that he carried throughout his life. Jerry and Sara Nelson father and mother-in-law. Ken's work history was marked by dedication and resilience. He was a proud employee at General Motors for nearly 25 years before taking medical retirement in 1999 due to his diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. His courageous spirit was evident as he faced his health challenges head-on, including a subsequent diagnosis of esophageal/stomach cancer in 2018. Ken was a true warrior, fighting his illness with the same vigor and determination that he approached every aspect of his life. A long-time motorcycle enthusiast, Ken's passion for riding began at the age of 14. His love for the open road was unmatched, and he explored the United States extensively with his beloved wife and brother-in-law by his side. His favorite destination was Troy, Montana, where he found solace in nature and the companionship of his best friend, Robin. Ken's adventurous spirit took him to countless destinations, including the iconic Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, the scenic routes of the Appalachian and Smoky Mountains, and the breathtaking vistas of national parks across the country. Ken's zest for life was reflected in his interests. He was a man who lived to camp, finding joy in the simplest of pleasures and the companionship of his beloved pets. Rusty, T-Bone, Moses, Diesel, and Sassy were more than pets; they were family. His Russian Blue cat, Scooter, who shared Ken's love for motorcycle rides, was a constant source of happiness. An art enthusiast, Ken and Robin admired the Harley Davidson Art by renowned artists David Uhl and Scott Jacobs. Their home was a testament to their shared passion for the open road and the culture that surrounds it. As we remember Ken, we are reminded of the words of Helen Keller: "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Ken's legacy is one of love, courage, and adventure. His journey may have come to an end, but the memories he created and the love he shared will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.