Kenneth O'Neil McBride

Kenneth O. McBride, age 97, of Novi, Michigan, passed away peacefully at Angela Hospice on January 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Ken was born in Detroit to the late Lucie (née Shelton) and John M. McBride. He grew up in Detroit and fondly shared many wonderful stories of the Cass Corridor during the 1930s and 1940s. Ken and his beloved wife, Joyce, raised their family in Garden City, Michigan, and shared 73 years of marriage.

Ken was a devoted father, a good listener, and a generous man who always made time for his family. He often reflected that he received many breaks as a young man and believed strongly in paying it forward-a value he lived by throughout his life.

At the age of 14, Ken began working by delivering electrical wiring supplies throughout downtown Detroit, laying the foundation for a career that would span 48 years with Don Blackburn & Company, where he ultimately retired as President.

An avid golfer and bowler, Ken also loved to travel, especially with Joyce. Together, they visited many places around the world and shared some of those adventures with their family. He enjoyed dining out, and one favorite memory was walking past The Whitney with Joyce and saying, "One day we're going to eat there." It was a promise Ken proudly lived up to, as the two went on to enjoy many wonderful dinners there together.

Ken is survived by his loving daughters, Connie (David) MacDonald and Karen (George) Bawden; his dear daughter-in-law, Marsha McBride; his adored grandchildren, Gina (Mark) Stevens, John (Cherie) McBride, Carl (Kim) Sheppy, Karrie (Zack) Chafetz, Margot (Whit) McLaughlin, Matthew (Reece) Bawden, and Colleen (Samantha) Bawden; his beloved step-grandson, Matt Shireman; 13 cherished great-grandchildren; and the eagerly awaited arrival of twin great-great-grandsons this May. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joyce, in 2019; his son, John McBride, in 2018; his sister, Frances Brooklier; and his brother, William McBride.

A Celebration of Life service will take place at a later date. Please check back for additional details.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Angela Hospice in honor of Kenneth's life.

Please keep Kenneth and his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.