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Kenneth Schenck Obituary
Kenneth was also a talented and beloved musician, finding true expression through his love of music. He played many instruments and wrote many songs, leaving behind countless recordings and journals of lyrics. His band, 86, played many shows through the years, sharing their passion with a wide audience. His creativity and skill resonated with those who had the privilege of hearing him play, leaving behind a legacy of "guitar hero".
He is survived by his two children and their mother: David (Rex) and his wife, Samantha; Cailyn and her wife, Emma; and Cheryl; by his grandsons: David Junior and soon-to-be born Kenneth; by his four siblings: David; Dee and her husband, Mac; Chris and his wife, Tessa; Patti and her husband, Harry; and by numerous nieces and nephews. Kenneth will also be lovingly remembered by his former band members and coworkers, many friends, and a multitude of students.
A celebration of life to honor Kenneth will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Athens Christian Church, 840B Hawthorne Ave, Athens, Georgia 30606. Family and friends are welcome to join to share a meal and memories together. Condolences are also invited to be made on 86's fan page on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/groups/58120517204/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT.
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Tara Gingerich Sager
June 25, 2025
I am so sorry to hear this. I met Ken in WV in the 80s and he was a charming conversationalist. I thought of him often over the years and I'm so happy to see that he was so beloved by so many. May his memory be a blessing to all who love him.
Dan Vaganek
May 27, 2025
Shine on brother Ken! Ken was something very rare, a true original.
Clay King
February 10, 2025
The 86 shows at the 688 were some of the best... What a great band. Ken was a master. Those were the days.. Seeing Ken, Max and Mac play at the EARL brought back some awsome memories.. Thanks, Guys...
Anne Boston
February 10, 2025
I love Ken.
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Kevin Shockley
February 8, 2025
I have many fond memories from the 86 house on Roxboro and Piedmont. I was always hanging around listening to their practices and amazed at the sounds I heard coming from Ken's guitar! My mind could not believe what my ears were hearing ! He would seamlessly jump between solid rhythm and wild , edge of the world leads and let's not forget Ken was a good singer with a rich voice! And, of course, THE SONGS ! Ken was a great wordsmith, storyteller and a very funny man ! He coined the phrase "PANTBOMB" You'll have to ask Max about that one ! I will remember the sweet, funny, talented and lovably quirky Ken who will always have a special place in my heart !
James Bartlett
February 7, 2025
My first memory of Schenck ,as we all called him, was when he came to my classroom to borrow a guitar. He played guitar for his little students every day and they sang. This was maybe 2008 or 2009. The following year we convinced Schenck to join our band that had grown out of playing together at school functions. Ken sang on "Slippin' into Darkness". That band was a blast. I loved Ken's great sense of humor and the few years (2010 to 2012 )that we played regularly were definitely some my best in education. One thing I am really grateful to Ken for was some personal advice he gave me as were talking on my front porch. I heeded it and I am glad I did. Schenck, I'm glad I got to see you a couple of years ago at Brian's. I never thought it would be the last time.
Sandra
February 4, 2025
I remember hanging out with Ken at the Blue Rat Gallery!! He was such a nice sweet person!!! And his band 86 was terrific!!!
Patti O
February 3, 2025
I first remember seeing Ken on stage playing with 86 in the mid-80´s. I, like most people, were in awe of his talent and drawn to his sweetness, his sense of humor and his good heart.
My deep condolences to the family and all who loved him.
Dan Vaganek
February 3, 2025
Ken was an extremely talented musician and a rare true original.
Jam on my brother...
Ana Sovaiala
February 3, 2025
I am deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family during this incredibly difficult time.
He was a remarkable man who touched the lives of so many. His legacy of kindness, strength, and wisdom will never be forgotten. May his memory bring comfort and peace like he was here in Nesbit Elementary.
"I knew him as an exceptional teacher with a big heart, especially for children in special education. His patience and dedication to these students were truly remarkable. I also had the privilege of seeing another side of him-his talent as a great singer. He loved brightening his students' days with his guitar, and we had the joy of working together during festival times and Christmas concerts."
"He was a truly great man who endured a great deal of pain after the passing of his wife. His suffering and illness took a toll on him, causing him to be absent from school on several occasions. I always enjoyed substituting in his class because it was such a warm, welcoming environment, and the students were wonderful. He had a remarkable way of shaping his pre-kindergarten students to listen and follow directions, even though each of them had their own unique behaviors."
God will watch over him and guide him on his journey, transforming him into the angel he truly was- a good and generous man."
Ana Sovaiala
Astrid Hauser
February 3, 2025
Sweet soul, spreading light in the school's hallways with his gentle smile.
He is missed.
Laura Buzard
February 3, 2025
Such a great loss. Ken was very special to me in my life.
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4870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Suite 150, Norcross, GA 30071
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