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Kenneth Marcus Obituary
Kenneth Bruce Marcus
Ken spent most of his childhood in Avon, WA where, although he wasn't the youngest in the family, he was the baby.
After graduation from Mount Vernon High School Ken spent some time in pursuit of a pretty young girl named Sue who lived at a Boy Scout Camp. She, being very smart said "Yes" when the question was asked. Hence, started a saga the likes of which have yet to be told. They enjoyed many adventures, reveled in family and friends, and laughed their way through 50 years of marriage.
There ensued from this pairing two daughters, Nancy and Pegger, who were dragged along on any and all adventures, proving that children thrive when exposed to life. Ken and family have enjoyed many great outdoor adventures, most notably paddling the 72 mile Bowron Lakes canoe circuit numerous times. The second trip to Bowron, Peg was four years old and the last time, Ken was old enough to know better. Between 1969 and 2005, Ken and Sue made 11 trips to Bowron, often dragging along friends and acquaintances.
Ken was a car nut. He and his brood spent many wonderful hours in and around the street rods that he built. From his love of cars, and life. came many lasting friendships. Ken has never met a stranger and had a great memory for faces; names, not so much. Ken has been building cars for years and is known as the "Kengineer" for his unique ideas. He was partial to '32 Fords, having built a beautiful '32 Ford tudor sedan and a classic '32 Ford Cabriolet. He was currently at work on a '32 Ford pick-up for the light of his life, Suzie. Ken also restored a 1955 Nash Metropolitan, in classic coral and white, with daughter, Peg. He was always available to help out anyone with their restoration project.
Ken didn't just restore his '32 Fords, he and Sue drove them. They drove them almost weekly to street rod events all over the Northwest. Tens, if not hundreds of thousands, of miles from Alberta to southern California, from Westport, WA to Billings, MT, usually pulling their vintage Apache tent trailer, for Ken and Sue loved to camp with their friends. And what friends! A loosely formed group of forty or more, from all over Washington who refer to themselves as "Buttnuggets" and now cover three generations, from toddlers to geezers. All in old cars with travel trailers or tents, driving together, camping together, dining as a group and generally having a blast. Never a dull moment!
Ken was a dear friend to all he met, and will be missed by all, but especially his family. He is survived by wife, Sue; daughters, Nancy (Scott) Loy, Peggy (Alice) Marcus; grandchildren, Madelyn and Bailey Loy, Birch and Ryland Marcus; sisters, Louise Newman and Doris (Jim) Vannice; as well as lots of extended family.
A celebration of life service will be held Sunday, April 7, 2012, 1:00 p.m. at Hawthorne Funeral Home, 1825 E. College Way, Mount Vernon, WA.
Please share your thoughts of Ken, and sign the online guest register at www.hawthornefh.com
Arrangements under the care of Hawthorne Funeral Home, Mount Vernon, WA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Marcus
Laura Matthews
March 28, 2021
Dear Ken,
2020 was the year from Hell. You did not miss much, but it did give us lots of time to go through pictures and review the past. Wow, we had some good times and you were there most of the time. We still miss you. Love, Laura and Val
Jerry Wilson
March 28, 2021
Love you Ranger , we're lost without your guiding !
Jerry Wilson
March 29, 2020
Time sure fly's it seems it hasn't been that long ago ,we of course miss Ken like hundreds of other do also. Just watched your 50th Anniversary video yesterday ! Everyone is looking out for your lovely wife Sue who we all love equally as we did you as a couple . Till we meet again "Ranger" Love & Hugs Jerry & Connie Wilson
Greg Peterka
April 27, 2013
Ken was a good person who was loved by all.
Nancy Rodriguez
April 9, 2012
Sue, Nancy, Peggy and rest of family... Always sad to hear someone so loved has passed. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Ken was a wonderful man and he would help anyone when it was needed.
Annette Burd
April 8, 2012
I will always remember Ken from his visits at Sager's on Wednesday mornings. He was always very polite and gracious.
shawn douglass
April 8, 2012
Goodbye Kenneth... So wonderful to have known you! Have a great journey.
Debbie Malcolm
April 7, 2012
Sue and Nancy, after working with you two and getting to hear about Ken and then my son and family moving in across from you and he says you all are the BEST neighbors, I am soooooooooooooooo sorry to hear about your loss! I want to be there today but I'm sick and don't wish to share that with you. Know my thoughts are with all of you- loved the obit too!
Lance, Laci and Kayla Larsen
April 7, 2012
Sue, Nancy, Peggy and the rest of the family - We were so saddened to hear of Ken's passing. Ken was such an important part of our lives and we will always cherish the wonderful memories. Although we will not be there today to celebrate Ken's life with you all, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
Ken in the camp lunch line flirting with the lunch ladies
Scott & Katie Sulpizio
April 7, 2012
Ken & pals on Kauai vacation 2011
Lauren & Ilene Larson
April 7, 2012
Ken in class @ camp
Emilio Sulpizio
April 7, 2012
Ken & Sue Hawaii bound
Lauren & Ilene Larson
April 7, 2012
Happy Birthday's Ken,Pete,Jerry,& Jan
Pete & Sherry Arnold
April 7, 2012
Four birhday's @ once,we're saving on cake & candles !
Mike & Diane Matthews
April 7, 2012
We didn't see Kenny often, but when we did, he was always the most sincere and comfortable person to be around. The term "nice guy" may seem trite, in Kenny's case it's an accurate description.
We can't be with you in person today, but we are with you in spirit.
Gale and Sharon Tripp
April 7, 2012
Dear Marcus family;
What a loss, but what a blessing to have known and loved Ken. He was my "Avon Gang" buddy , and we had a ton of great times together, which will never be forgotten. We pray for your peace and comfort as we all celebrate Ken's life. He was a wonderful friend, and a benchmark for all of us who knew him. God bless your family.
Buttnugget's annual gathering
Dan & Jan Gudaz
April 7, 2012
The Buttnuggets gathering @ Gudaz's "Crazy Hat theme Ken on the right with just some of his many crazy car friends.
April 7, 2012
We are so sorry to have heard of Ken's passing from Laura. He was a very dear man who made everyone just happy to be around him. You two were always so lovable and happy together and were fun to see at Car club picnics, Christmas parties and rod runs. Our love and prayers are with you and your family. We thought Ken's obituary was very well-written. (The SVH didn't even make any typos)!
Love, Erv & Libby
Michelle Williams
April 6, 2012
I am so grateful to have known Ken. I'm even more grateful he & my dad got to know each other. The whole MV clan have been so generous to us.
-Michelle (Larry's oldest)
Carol Gordy Wiren
April 6, 2012
We miss Ken so very much. greatest friend one could possibly have.We had great vacations together with Ken and Sue. trusted and helping always. Ken will always be with us. Carol Gordy Wiren
Angie Harrison
April 6, 2012
I always had a greatest time with Kenny at the rodruns. he always made us laugh all the time. i always loved your dance moves and your keen fashion sence. I will always miss u. just save the last dance for me and for sue. love always from Ange
Val Matthews
April 6, 2012
Kenny was my best friend. I know many others who can say the same, that's the kind of person Kenny was, a friend to everyone he met. I met Ken and Sue at a rod run almost forty years ago. Over the past thirty years Laura and I have shared many adventures with Ken and Sue; traveling together in our street rods, backpacking in the North Cascades in the late summer, backpacking Washington's wilderness beaches in mid-winter, many 10 day canoe vacations in Washington and British Columbia and of course, all those wonderful "Buttnugget" weekends. Through all this, Ken and Sue have remained true and steadfast friends. Thank you and your wonderful family!
Kenny, you go ahead, choose a nice campsite by the lake, get the fire going, we'll all catch up before you know it.
Skip and Linda Ritchey
April 5, 2012
Dear Sue and Girls
I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your Love one, Ken. I didn't know him, but he had a very Special wife, and family. I know you will really miss him. Why do things like this happen. We are sure thinking of you Sue and your family.
Steve Hoag aka Otis Q Buckwheat
April 5, 2012
My condolences to Sue and family. I didn't know Ken well yet I remember him fondly - he was a truly nice guy.
I'm sure that he's smiling down on you from hot-rod heaven.
Attila Kardos
April 5, 2012
Dear Sue,
Hearing of Kenny's passing made me bring out the journal & pictures Laura put together after our 2003 canoe trip to Ross Lake. That trip is one of my favorite memories -- perfect weather & wonderful people to enjoy it with.
Thank you for letting Attila and me share a small part of your lives. Sweet memories of Kenny's gentleness & kindness will be with us forever.
Love,
Attila & Karen Kardos
Laura Matthews
April 4, 2012
It would take a book to tell all the Kenny stories, but here is one that no one else can tell. It illustrates the kindness and thoughtfullness of both Ken and Sue.
In 1987 Val and I were building the home that we live in today. We worked on the house until ready to drop. One evening two angels arrived with dinner, with all the trimmings. Out of the trunk of the car, came a card table, four chairs, table cloth, candles, dishes, glasses, a bottle of wine, and a delicious dinner. (imagine that, angels with cars, maybe they can have street rods) The most important thing they brought that evening was their friendship.
We have been lucky enough to enjoy many trips and adventures with Ken and Sue through the years, and will cherish all our memories. Ken will live in our hearts and minds. His was a life, well lived, and great example for all.
Will miss you very much. Laura
Sue and Tom Tucker
April 4, 2012
Dear Sue, Tom and I just heard about Ken and are just so very sorry to hear this. We will miss seeing him around the car shows, especially Yakima. He was a truly nice and kind and gentle man. Our hearts go out to you and your family during this difficult time.
Chris & Beth Vernon
April 4, 2012
Aunt Sue, Nancy and Peg, just wanted you to know how very saddened our hearts are at the loss of Uncle Kenny. He truly was an absolute delight to be around. He will be sorely missed by many. I have heard some pretty amazingly funny stories about him through his nephew Chris, who loved him very much. And I am very thankful and honored that Uncle Kenny and you, Aunt Sue, traveled all the way up here to our wedding. That meant the world to Chris. And as I was reading this obituary about such a wonderful man, it sure brought a smile and laugh. Best one ever written!! Hats off Ladies!! Makin' Uncle Kenny proud!! We love you and will miss you Uncle Kenny. Love Chris and Beth
April 4, 2012
I would like to extend my condolences to the Marcus family for their loss of Kenny. He will sorely missed.
Having worked with Kenny at Skagit PUD for over ten years, I can say he was one of the happiest of the people. He always greeted everyone with his wonderful smile.
He enjoyed his work and was someone you wanted to be around.
I will miss him and always remember him.
Ken Kukuk
Greg Peterka
April 4, 2012
Ken served the public well and for a long time...and he left many friends at PUD...and beyond.
(Whoever wrote Ken's obituary did a fine job!!! Thanks.)
Judy and Harry Cuff
April 4, 2012
Sue and family how sorry we were to hear of your loss. You and Ken are so special to the Sulpizios and we are so aware of what you mean to Scott and Emilio. We are so thankful we have the honor of knowing the 2 of you. Love and prayers from Montana.
Holly Trosper
April 3, 2012
Sue and girls-So sorry for you loss! Praying for you all. I know he will be missed by many!
Fletcher Mackenzie
April 3, 2012
RIP Mr. Marcus....thank you for everything...a huge thank you to your family for sharing you with the rest of us....I still hear Ken cheering for "Stretch"...
Jim & Donna White
April 3, 2012
Sue we meant you and Ken through Marigail, and enjoyed you and Ken. We always looked forward to seeing the two of you at Sulpizio events. Ken will leave a big void at the get togethers.
Ron & Sue Arnold
April 3, 2012
Dear Sue, We will never forget the first time we met you & Ken, Val & Laura on the Bowron Lakes. You certainly knew how to have a good time! Always loved to get together over the years to check up on Ken's shop projects. Ron always came away very enthused to get his '35 Ford back on the road. Sending you & the girls all our sympathy.
Kim Evans
April 3, 2012
Sue, Nancy, Peggy & family - I was stunned to hear about Ken's passing. When I called up to MV I could not believe what mom and dad had to relay. My first thoughts went to Baker Lake and all of the fun times we had camping up there. Paddling with Ken in the canoe only to have him tip it in the middle of the lake; being scared witless because we thought we were drowning, only to have Ken stand up and laugh hysterically! Playing volleyball in the water in the rain with the mosquitoes, watching Ken get drenched when dad emptied the tarps of excess water and Ken was standing in just the right spot, and of course the infamous "snipe" hunting!!!! The poker runs when I was a kid were fun too.... So many great memories. Rest in peace Ken...you will be missed.
Kim (Tom & Pat's daughter)
Sis Robertson
April 3, 2012
Sending your family all our sympathy! From Sis Robertson and family.
Here comes Ken & Sue - Leavenworth
Jerry & Connie Wilson
April 3, 2012
We've known Ken & Sue for 15 years & what a priviledge that has been.Of course there is a hole in our hearts now when we'll be missing Ken @ all our car events but we'll have Sue to keep us going !I surely enjoyed the honor of dancing for Ken @ one of his birthdays in Yakima in my "Red Dress",probably more than he did! Connie & I enjoyed a fun adventurous trip to Canada with the Marcus's to one of the far north shows where Ken & Sue stole the show. Nicer folk's you'll never know & we're so thankful they have been in our lives. Love you man PS: say hi to the "Rodfather" (Denny) See you down the road XOXO
Jane Arndt (Hebert)
April 3, 2012
Sue and girls, My thoughts and prayers are for you. I was sadden to see the news of Kens passing. What fun we had at the rod runs. Never to be forgotten. Hugs my friend.
Christmas in July @ Leavenworth
Jerry & Connie Wilson
April 3, 2012
April 3, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of Ken's passing. I haven't seen him since I was young, but he was always one of my favorites among the car club alum. It's not often you read an obituary that makes you smile, but it perfectly embodied the Kenny I knew as a kid. I'll never forget my first snipe hunt (courtesy of Kenny, of course) or his epic willie nelson costume. Your family is in my thoughts.
—teriann vaughan
(youngest daughter of Terry and Diane Vaughan)
April 3, 2012
I grew up one block away from Ken's Mt Vernon Home & delivered his Newspapers.I stopped & checked out his latest project & sometimes gave my advice on the build.Thats why some of your Newspapers were late once in awhile.Many years later while living in Sedro Woolley,I had a '37 Ford PU sitting in my driveway & was trying to find the Vin#. While doing his rounds for the PUD He stopped & asked what I was up to? I told him & he asked if I had a scraper & said the Vin# should be right here on the frame. He scraped off the Old Rust & Paint & there it was.I always look forward to a Donut at the MV Swap Meet but,it won't be the same this year.We will miss you.
Scott Thurston
PS Very well written Obituary
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