Kenneth Donmyer Obituary
Kenneth Donmyer
Muskegon Michigan
January 6, 2025
Kenneth Eugene Donmyer, affectionately known as Ken to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2025, in Muskegon, Michigan with his daughters at his side. Born on January 25, 1952, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Ken had a spirit and contagious humor throughout his 72 years of life.
Ken's journey led him to careers that included roles as a business owner, tow truck driver, semi-truck driver, railroad conductor, and a skilled builder of pole barns and homes.
Ken's laughter and humor often filled the room, especially when he was watching his favorite comedies, action movies, and westerns. He had a remarkable talent for repeating movie lines at just the right moment, bringing smiles to the faces of those around him. His love for dogs and puppies was profound, and the joy they brought him was evident to all who knew him.
He was a father to his three daughters, whom he lovingly referred to as his "baby girls," Lisa (Don) Galarneau, Amy (Jim) Richardson, and Shiela (Mark) Kruskie. Ken's brother Ron (Brenda) Donmyer, and sisters Sandy (Tim) Rickaby, Suzy (Denny) Wilson, Sherry (Jim) Kaiser, Donna Van Antwerp, and Debbyee (Joey) Dixon, all held a special place in his heart. His role as a grandfather was one he cherished deeply, sharing his wit and wisdom with grandchildren Heather (Tyler) Newkirk, John (Briana) Doneth, Emily Doneth, Kadin Galarneau, Dylan (Katie) Richardson, Lucas (Tesamae) Richardson, Halle Richardson, Wyatt Kruskie, and Garrett (Jasmine) Kruskie.
Ken's legacy continued to grow with the birth of his great-grandchildren Ridge Richardson, Lennon Richardson, and Maverick Kruskie.
Ken's life was further enriched by the numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Ken was known as funny and spirited by all who knew him with his quick wit and infectious humor. Among his many cherished moments was the joy he found in nicknaming his grandchildren with cowboy, cowgirl, or other witty nicknames, a testament to his creativity and love for them. He also delighted in giving his grandkids playful "snake bites", cherished the simple pleasure of a good cup of coffee, joy in watching the NASCAR races and cheering on the Detroit Lions.
In recent years, Ken faced the challenges of dementia. Ultimately, Ken lost his battle with dementia, but his spirit will forever be remembered.
As we bid farewell to Ken, we celebrate a life lived to the fullest, marked by laughter, love, and spirit. His memory will continue to light up the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know him.
Ken's legacy will be carried forward by the family he adored and the lives he touched.
Kenneth Eugene Donmyer will be deeply missed but never forgotten. We take comfort in knowing that his spirit will live on through the cherished memories he created with all who knew him.
Published by Manistee News Advocate on Jan. 10, 2025.