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Kenneth Bailey Obituary
SACRAMENTO - Kenneth Steven "Ken" Bailey passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025, in Sacramento, California. He was born on September 11, 1948, in Oakland, California.
In 1971, Ken married Lane Christine (Ryken), and together they built a life filled with love and devotion, raising three daughters in Sacramento. Their enduring partnership spanned 53 years and was a testament to their unwavering commitment to one another.
Ken is survived by his beloved wife Chris; his daughters Bridget (Chuck), Nora (Pedar), and Margery (Art); his brothers Dan (Ann) and Martin (Charlene) Bailey; and his five favorite grandchildren Casey, Liam, Erik, Lila, and Rita.
He was preceded in death by his brothers Dick (Elaine), Paul (Janne), Dale and sister Carol (Harvey). He was very proud of his large family with so many nieces and nephews, and although he didn't see them often, he loved and wanted the best for them all.
A proud veteran, Ken served his country with honor during the Vietnam War before embarking on a career as an Air Traffic Controller. He later retired from the United States Postal Service after years of dedicated service. Ken also served for 25 years in the California Air National Guard with the 234th Combat Communication Unit, retiring as a Master Chief.
Ken's life was defined by his deep commitment to helping others. For over 37 years, he was an active steward of the 12-step recovery community, offering guidance and support to those seeking sobriety. He also devoted countless hours at the Sacramento VA hospital, providing prayers and encouragement to veterans coping with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). His compassion and dedication left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Ken was known for his fantastic sense of humor and sharp wit, often surprising those around him with his sarcasm and quick comebacks. He loved to read and stay informed, engaging in meaningful conversations where his curiosity and openness to new ideas shone through. a good listener, he made people feel heard and valued.
Above all else, Ken will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather. His family was the cornerstone of his life, alongside his faith and sobriety-values he held dear until the very end.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the PTSD Foundation of America in honor of Ken's legacy of service and care for others.
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Marilyn Accinelli
February 10, 2025
Remembering Uncle Kenny with his quick wit and sense of humor is and will be a treasure in my heart. I always loved seeing him at the Bailey/Accinelli family gatherings. So loving and kind. My prayers are with you in this journey of grief and sorrow. Grief is so hard. Remember the good times. God bless the entire family and friends! Love, Marilyn Accinelli (niece)
Nora
February 7, 2025
Dad didn´t share a lot of details about his time in Vietnam. He didn´t share his feelings unless you got quiet and asked. I would iron his Air National Guard uniforms before he left every month for his weekend warrior duty, and I would hold his dog tags. I asked him about his time in Vietnam and I could tell it was terrible, and he didn´t want me to know just how bad it was.
Dad served in the Air Force and went to Vietnam to serve on the ground in radio communications. He came home from war and completed his studies to be an Air Traffic controller. If he could relay communications in a war zone, he could handle speaking to pilots in the Tower, right?
My Dad was one of the 11,000 Air Traffic Controllers fired back in 1981. He was 32 years old, with three kids under 9. Mom and Dad had bought their home in Sacramento and things were going well. You can imagine the financial and emotional stress that came after he was fired. The civil service ban on air traffic controllers was not lifted until 1993. However, because he had ATC status with the Air National Guard, he worked at Moffet Naval Airforce Base in Mountain View, and once the ban was lifted, he was able to work at Sacramento Executive Airport, which is where he ended his controller career.
My Mom shared that the stress from the time he was unemployed turned out to be the one thing that finally got him to ask for help for his nightmares about Vietnam. What seemed to be the lowest part of his life, turned out to be his saving grace.
Dad did not seek help with the VA for his PTSD until much later in life. I wish he had. I think his life could have been filled with more laughter and better sleep. I think we could have enjoyed a different experience with him. He did his best and we loved him as best as we could. If you or someone you know is suffering from depression and anxiety, please never stop trying to lead them to help.
Bridget Peri
January 27, 2025
Marcia F
January 26, 2025
Dearest Chris and family,
Deep and sincere condolences for the loss of Ken. When I remember him, he was kind, helpful, caring and soft spoken. Smiling! He was a wonderful addition to our recovery meetings at Saint John church.
May you all experience our Lord´s love and comfort.
Sincerely, Marcia F.
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Pedar Bruce
January 26, 2025
When I first started dating Nora, she told me all about her family, including her Dad and his extensive military service and rank of Master Sergeant E9. I was pretty intimidated as a young man trying to date his beautiful daughter.
But when I pulled up to the house one hot day to pick up Nora for a date, I was greeted by a tanned, shirtless Ken, standing on the driveway waiting for me. He had the biggest smile and welcomed me like family, hugging me in all of his shirtless glory. I couldn´t have asked for welcome to the Bailey Family!
You are greatly missed, Ken. Love, Pedar
Mitzi
January 24, 2025
Beautiful family, beautiful memories, beautiful legacy, beautiful life.
God bless you all, Mitzi
Nikki DeHay
January 24, 2025
So very sorry to hear of Ken's passing. What a lovely neighbor to chat with over the years. He will be greatly missed.
Brian Bailey
January 23, 2025
"Kenny baby "as my Dad (Richard Bailey) the oldest of his siblings would affectionately call him, loved Ken dearly and installed in us ( his children) the deepest love of the man. As all of you know, we Bailey/Accinelli clan members are flawed with the human condition known as mankind. Ken never stopped battling the fight to improve and give back. He will be missed but his legacy lives on with his beautiful wife, daughters, and grandchildren!
Rest in peace Dear uncle-your efforts are recorded and are rewarded by your savior Jesus Christ
Nephew Brian
Nora
January 23, 2025
chris jones
January 23, 2025
He is now in heaven with God and Jesus. The world was a better place for his being part of it. God bless you Ken . Chris Jones
Valery Piper
January 23, 2025
Dearest Chris, I didn't know your beloved Ken, but you and your daughters are in my heart and prayers. By your wonderful obituary I can tell his was a life well lived. Peace be with your family at this most difficult time. With love, Valery Piper
Diane Anderson
January 23, 2025
Ken was warm, funny, witty and a joy to be around. My condolences to his wonderful wife Chris and his children and other relatives.
Nora
January 23, 2025
Dad and some of his siblings: Dad, Dan, Paul, Dick, and Martin.
Nora
January 23, 2025
Kate Wilding
January 23, 2025
So sad to hear of uncle Kenny´s passing. Such a sweet wacky guy. He will be missed!
Margery
January 22, 2025
Dad had a tough shell but a very soft center .
I loved watching him with my high school friends .
Can´t find the words yet .
Love you
Margery
Nora
January 22, 2025
Dad and Mom recently watched our 12-pound dog while we were on vacation. When I called them up to see how it was going, Dad said, "I didn't know your dog had a bark from hell. She can almost wake the dead." So funny.
Nora
January 22, 2025
Dad coming home from Vietnam.
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