Stensby, Kenneth Norman On Sunday, May 5, 2013, Kenneth N. Stensby, avid adventurer, lover of life and dedicated family man died after a fall while hiking in Yosemite National Park. Ken died the way he lived: with a bold spirit, a zest for adventure, and a passion for physical challenge. He died doing what he loved, but his first and foremost love was for his family; this compassionate and generous man would grieve deeply for the sorrow now experienced by his loving wife of 49 years, Darlene Auger Stensby; daughters, Heidi Stensby (Sooze Hickman) and Angel Bulera (Todd); brother Gary Stensby (Merijean); brother-in-law Terry Auger (Wanda); six grandchildren, Kyle Bulera, Zach McQuade, Madeline Shaw, Nicholas Shaw, Patch Bulera, and Finn Bulera; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends. Ken is preceded in death by beloved daughter, Robin; sister, Audrey Palen Quinn; brother-in-law, Gary Auger; parents, Ed and Ann Stensby; and in-laws, Reuben and Elaine Auger. Ken was a graduate of Carleton College and went on to a brilliant career in the local commercial real estate market, serving for 28 years as President of United Properties. He retired at 55 in order to spend more time with family and to pursue his passion for travel, sailing, biking, hiking skydiving, digital photography, and many other interests. Ken had a keen wit and a bright mind and proudly considered himself to be a lifelong learner. A memorial service will be held at Colonial Church, 6200 Colonial Way in Edina, on Monday, May 20 at 11 AM with a reception to follow at the church. Friends and family are encouraged to write down and bring or send a favorite memory of Ken to be placed in a book for the younger grandchildren so they may come to know their extraordinary Abpa/Bappa better. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred and may be directed to the Kenneth N. Stensby Memorial Family Fund - which will be used to assist Ken's grandchildren with their educations. Please send contributions to Darlene Stensby or to US Bank (7001 France Avenue South; Edina, MN 55435). Ken took to heart the words he and Darlene had carved onto a favorite piece of furniture: Go out for adventure. Come home for love. These he did with all his heart. He and his radiant smile will be deeply missed.
This obituary was originally published in the Star Tribune.
