KENNETH ALLEN CLOSE

Kenneth Allen Close, 78 years old, died peacefully in his home on May 25, following complications from a stroke. His favorite place was on the beach of the WA coast, listening to the roar of the waves and walking for miles. Ken was born to David and Esther Close on January 30, 1943, in Bellingham. He was the middle child of eleven. He loved his large family and the robust gatherings they often enjoyed.

Ken attended high school in Everett and joined the Navy following. He became a signalman third class on the Hassayampa stationed in Hawaii where he served four years.

After some years of logging and working in Alaska, Ken remarried, changed careers, and began working for Nelson Trucking in Seattle, moving heavy machinery. He enjoyed interaction with the customers and the great variety that the job offered.
He attended Westgate Chapel in Edmonds where he sang in the choir, went on ministry trips, and made many friends. He had a tender heart for the hurting and always took time to listen to their stories and to make sure they were ministered to.
After retirement, he drove for CRISTA Ministries, shuttling the seniors and enjoying their fascinating life stories and honoring them with respect and kindness.

In 2015, he and his wife settled in Anacortes which had always been a dream of his. He loved the out of doors, chatting with strangers, and tootling around town on his mobility scooter with his faithful friend, Max, a golden retriever.

In the end he was cared for with respect and patience by the wonderful team at Hospice of the Northwest and in lieu of flowers, would love for donations to be made to them. Address: 227 Freeway Drive, Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 Phone: 360.814.5550.

A celebration of life was held on Saturday, June 5, 1pm at Family Life Assembly in Anacortes, 1617 29th St.
Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com .