Kenneth Robert Aldrich

Aldrich Kenneth (Ken) Robert Jr. aka “Capt. Kenny," aka "The Rock Man",  (77) formally of Grand Rapids, and Cranberry Lake, went to be with his Lord, after passing  away unexpectedly, at U of M West Hospital, Sat. June 24, 2023.

Ken was born to Kenneth and Joann, Feb. 13, 1946.

Ken  graduated from Godwin High School, in 1964, as the number one tennis singles player.

After attending Ferris State College, for one year, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he proudly served as a top security officer for 2 yrs. in Japan and a year in Pakistan.

Prior to his enlistment, he met his wife, Karen, on a blind date. Though not in a steady relationship  the entire time, they did marry six years  later,  on March 20, 1971.

Upon his return from the service, Ken obtained his teaching degree at WMU. For two years, he taught at Portland Middle School, and retired from Kent City Public School, as a Science Teacher.

Ken loved sharing his knowledge of rocks and minerals, from students as young as Pre-K  on up. Students and Staff fondly referred to him as the “Rock Man”.

He was also skilled at building  oak furniture, from a school house clock to bunk beds. And also  mastered the skill of filleting fish!

Ken always enjoyed talking to people, friend or stranger. He was a man of endless stories, and his sense of humor was beyond compare.

Ken loved spending time with his family and friends,  fishing, camping, and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events.

After they both retired from teaching, Ken and Karen , began to spend time in Florida, and it was only in the past 11/2 yrs. that they took up residence in NorthPort, FL and also in Holland, MI.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother in law, Thomas Russell, his nephew, Rob Russell, and sister in law, Lynne Goodspeed.

He is survived by his wife, Karen of 52 yrs.; his sons, Troy (Jennifer), of Allegan, Ryan (Corin) of Lakewood, CO.; his grandchildren Tyler Cray, and Aly Irene; his sisters; Patricia (Tom) Russell, Kathy (Fred) Yerrick; brother in law, Gerald (Judy) Czerwinski; and several nieces and nephews.

A Memorial service will be held, Sat. Aug. 12, at 11:00 am, at Pillar Church, 57 E. 10th St. ,Holland, MI. 49423. Pastor Jon Brown, is officiating.

In Lieu of flowers, contributions, may be made to Pillar Church ministries, Tunnel to Towers, or Grand Rapids Home for  Veterans.

Ken has donated his body to Science, thru Medcure, and at a later date, yet to be determined, he will be buried at the Great Lakes  National Cemetery.