Kenneth Orion Kaiser

Kenneth Orion Kaiser, beloved friend, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, passed away on June 30, 2025. He was 85.

Born January 3, 1940, Ken was the son of Clifford F. Kaiser, a U.S. Army officer, and Dorothy M. Kaiser (née Drew). He was named after the stars-an early hint at the strength and brightness that would define his life.

After completing his undergraduate degree at Linfield University, Ken began a lifelong military career by joining the U.S. Navy in 1965. He completed Officer Training at Newport, Rhode Island and went on to serve three combat tours in Vietnam, earning a Bronze Star with Valor and two Purple Hearts for his service on Patrol Boat, River (PBR) units. After the war, he continued to serve as a Surface Warfare Unrestricted Line Officer specializing in Intelligence and Military Systems.

His dedication to country didn't end with his uniform. After completing his Masters Degree at George Washington University and retiring from active duty as a Commander, Ken went on to a second distinguished career as a lead systems engineer at the Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific in San Diego, California, where he continued his work with military systems until his retirement in 2007.

Upon retiring, Ken and his beloved wife Cheri relocated to Battle Ground, Washington, where they spent many joyful years together. Whether restoring vintage cars, woodworking, hunting for antiques, traveling, reading, or staying active in their church community, Ken and Cheri were always working on a project or planning their next adventure.

Ken will be remembered for his outgoing spirit, humor, and a big, booming laugh that could fill a room and draw others in just to share the joy. With a quick wit and a warm heart, he was a master of the clever and well-timed joke-which were usually far better than those on the extensive collection of sarcastic T-shirts he always wore proudly. He could turn even the hardest days into something lighter, always advising that his time in the military taught him that you have to appreciate that it's an easier day when people aren't shooting at you. He was a bank vault of dad jokes, a treasure trove of sea stories, a library of historical knowledge, and a trusted go to for all kinds of dad advice on cars, tools, plumbing, and assorted projects. His hugs were generous, his spirit even more so, and he had an unparalleled gift for making everyone feel like family.

He was a teacher, a listener, and a friend to so many. He taught those around him how to build things, fix things, appreciate fine craftsmanship, stay curious about the world, and always-how to laugh. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Ken will be buried with military honors at Willamette National Cemetery at 11:30 am on September 2, 2025. A celebration of life reception followed by a memorial service will be held from 1-2:30 pm at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Battle Ground, Washington. All are welcome to celebrate the remarkable life of a man who gave so much and asked for so little.