Kenneth (Ken) McCalister

Kenny was an amazing friend and he and I shared many wonderful times on Anna Maria island. He with his dog Clarissa and I with mine, Mitchell. We would walk for miles on the beaches and through the neighborhoods, grazing on various fruits we borrowed from neighbors yards.

Sumo wrestling on the north point, star gazing with Micki and Heidi, swimming at Lithia springs.

Kenny was always ready for an adventure. On to the next adventure.

So sorry to hear about Kennys passing. We grew up together on Anna Maria, We spent hours at the island youth center, Roser youth group, camping, learning guitar and bike riding the entire island together. I baby sat his little brothers and sisters while his mom and Kenny worked (Sand Bar restaurant), Kenny spent summers working on my dads riverboats in Iowa. Always adventurous, always a trendsetter. Kenny always researched what he wanted whether it was a guitar or bicycle, surfboard, and saved up and got the best. Then everyone else followed suit and got the same guitar, bike, surfboard. Way ahead of his time in music appreciation- we would spend hours listening to obscure and not so obscure albums. ( I just heard a song by Pacific Gas and Electric, that is what reminded me to get on line and write my condolences) I believe he is the person who fostered my love of music, and my love of plants. Thank you for that Kenny! We stayed in touch until he moved to the Marco area. I am so happy to hear he had a job he loved, a happy marriage and family that he loved and certainly deserved. RIP Kenny

May 7, 2024
Jan Dietrich
One of the best. Grew up with him on Anna Maria Island. Always had a great sense of humor and made everyone laugh. RIP Kenny, you are a legend.

Kenny Mac. I will miss you my good friend. Living on Anna Maria was great times back in those days! Will never forget our Surf Trip when we were 15 yrs old to Kauai living off the land at Taylor´s camp. Me and you walki back to the waterfall in Kalalau Valley is unforgettable. Love to your family. See you on the other side.

The one word that comes to mind when thinking about Uncle Kenny is JOY. You were always a joy to be around and always came in the room with a smile. You always made us laugh and you will forever be missed. My garden will be dedicated to you and your memory and I hope to one day have the green thumb that you did!

I will always think of you as my fun and always happy uncle - who gave me a black eye during catch, a dollar bill each time you were around, and your favorite guitar with the carved out sun on it. There´s not a memory I have of you that isn´t positive and happy. I´m looking forward to seeing you again when I can tell you how much I´ve missed you and love you!