Kenneth Joseph Byrne

In Loving Memory of Kenneth Joseph "Ken" Byrne
January 16, 1943 – July 19, 2025
Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Friend
Kenneth Joseph Byrne, age 82, of Saline, Michigan, passed away on Saturday, July 19, 2025, with his family by his side. Ken was born on January 16, 1943, in Spangler, Pennsylvania, to the late Louis E. Byrne and Florence L. (Kelly) Byrne. Ken is survived by his beloved wife Jean of 61 years; his daughters Christina Byrne Hawkins and Paulette Byrne Goforth; and his grandchildren Anna Lindsey Goforth, Brian Todd Goforth, and Jackson Kenneth Hawkins. He is also survived by his siblings Donna Byrne Frank, Paul Byrne, Mary Lou Byrne Knapik, Raymond Byrne, and Gloria Byrne Hanlon, as well as many treasured nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Kenneth Byrne Jr., and his brothers Eugene Byrne and Walter Byrne. Ken and Jean settled in Virginia, where Ken worked for Virginia Electric and Power Company (Dominion Power) for 30 years. A dedicated and dependable employee, he brought the same steady presence to his work that he brought to every area of his life. Upon retirement, Ken (Pap-Pap) and Jean followed their heart-and their grandchildren-relocating to Michigan to be closer to family.
Ken was a man of quiet strength, deep faith, and infinite patience. He was devoted to his family above all else, especially his three beloved grandchildren. Whether at home or at the "mountain house" he built with his brothers and brother-in-law in Pennsylvania, Ken created spaces where memories flourished. The mountain house became a treasured getaway for his grandchildren and the site of joyful Fourth of July reunions, where Ken could be found joking, laughing, and playing with his siblings and nieces and nephews. His corny sense of humor-often shared in long, laughing conversations with his brothers and sisters-was one of his trademarks.
He never judged and always made people feel welcome and at ease, even during times of illness. Ken had a special way of making everyone feel seen and valued. He was endlessly patient, generous with his time, and happiest when surrounded by family.
He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.
Private services have taken place. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Kenneth's name may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, PO Box 1000 Dept 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908, or to The Special Olympics, 160 68th Street SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548. To leave a memory you have of Kenneth or to sign his online guestbook please visit www.rbfhsaline.com