Ken Vickery

Roger Kendall "Ken" Vickery passed away peacefully at his home in Snellville, GA on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the age of 85.

Ken was born on February 3, 1939, in Hartwell, GA to Asa Marion and Lucy Sanders Vickery. He was an athletic and scholastic child. At Hart County High School, he lettered in football and baseball, served as President of the Glee Club, and participated in the Debaters League. Following graduation, he applied his academic talents to his undergraduate studies in Industrial Engineering at Georgia Tech, where he earned his BA in 1962. Ken also served in the U.S. Army, entering active duty as a First Lieutenant and leaving as a Captain in the Reserves.

In 1962, Ken started what would become a 36-year career at Union Camp, a major manufacturer of paper products. He started in Savannah, GA as an Industrial Engineer in the Bag Division, then joined the Container Division, where he distinguished himself in engineering, manufacturing, and general management positions. He played a key role in the company's building new factories in Decatur, AL and Lafayette, LA. In 1991, Ken became Director of Engineering and Manufacturing Support, through which he developed a vision for the company's manufacturing organization that resulted in significant productivity improvement and recognition from customers. Ken valued his work with Union Camp and developed lifelong friendships with many of his colleagues.

Upon retiring at age 59, Ken devoted himself to woodworking and developed particular expertise in segmented woodturning. His bowls and other works are visible on his website at https://kv39473.wixsite.com/rkv-woodworking. For several years he was active in the Gwinnett Woodworkers Association, of which he served as President.

Ken cared deeply about his neighborhood and served as Treasurer of the Trotter's Ridge Homeowners Association for several years. During this time, he championed several enhancement projects, most notably an extensive cedar fencing project to line the neighborhood's perimeter.

Ken leaves behind a legacy of engineering advancements at Union Camp, a series of beautification projects in Trotter's Ridge, a collection of masterful woodturning projects, and deep affection and gratitude in the hearts of his family and friends, whom he loved dearly.

Survivors include his wife of 36 years, Nancy Head Vickery of Snellville, GA; son, Ken Vickery of Urbana, IL; daughter, Page Vickery of Hartwell, GA; bonus sons, Michael Sadlock (Melissa) of Monroe, GA and Johnathan Sadlock (Sandi) of Fairhope, AL; grandsons, Haven and Weston Sadlock and Nathan Sadlock; and brother, Mike Vickery of LaGrange, GA.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Helen, Ken's caregiver for the last year. She became a comforter and friend and was there until the very end. Thanks also to Andrea for her care and support. A very special thanks to our friends, neighbors, and family for all their support during this time.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Tom M. Wage's Funeral Home, Snellville, GA, on Saturday, October 26, 2024. Visitation will start at 1:30 PM, with a service beginning at 3:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that individuals consider making a donation in Ken's memory to the Gwinnett Woodworkers Association, c/o Rob Austin, 1167 Fountain Glen Court, Lawrenceville, GA 30043. Please mark "Canes for Heroes" or https://gofund.me/fb5068ee.

Condolences may be sent or viewed at www.wagesfuneralhome.com. Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, A Family Company, 3705 Highway 78 West, Snellville, GA 30039 (770-979-3200) has been entrusted with the arrangements.