Kenneth D. McPhail

Kenneth D. McPhail
Died November 29, 2025
TRAVERSE CITY, MI – At ten o'clock p.m., Saturday November 29, 2025, Kenneth Donald McPhail, 75, lost an intense two-month battle with AML in the peaceful presence of his family.
Ken was born on April 27, 1950 in Kimberley, British Columbia, Canada to Irene and Neil McPhail. He was the class historian for the 1968 graduating class of Selkirk High School. He earned a full ride scholarship to play hockey for the Michigan Tech Huskies in Houghton, MI. His freshman year he was given the Elov Seger award for the most improved player. Ken received a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Michigan Tech in 1972. Upon graduation, he was drafted by the New Haven Nighthawks. He played with the Fort Worth Wings/Texans from 1973-75. Ken was loved by the fans, and how they roared when he took the ice at Will Roger's Coliseum in Ft. Worth!
During the off season, he ran the pro shop at the Kimberley Golf Course in his hometown. His endless patience as a professional produced some very fine golfers. After moving to Traverse City in 1979, Ken spent every free moment honing his skills at Elmbrook or Bay Meadows, alone, or as part of the Youth Golf program. Ken kept up his skating skills, serving as the assistant coach for the Traverse City Trojans Central High School hockey team in 1997 and 1998. He also shared his skating skills through the Learn to Skate program with the USFSA at Howe and Centre Ice Arenas.
They say that you know a person by the friends they keep which has proven to be true. Ken's work family and buddies have been a stellar support system. We want to have Ken remembered as a gentle and kind person. He loved his family very much. He loved the outdoors, especially the mountains, and Kokanee fishing.
Ken is survived by his daughters, Heather McPhail and Allison McPhail-Leaven (Alex Leaven), and grandson Theodore of Ann Arbor. He is also survived by Dianna Walker-McPhail (Norman Spooner) of Lake Leelanau; Murray (Lil) McPhail; Leigh Cunes (Bob); Donald Williams; John Walker (Donna); Judith McGrath; Jamie Walker; Kristen Keswick (Brian); Thomas McGrath; Lauren Walker (Dan Civovic and son, Brantley); Gregory Keswick; Bradley Keswick; Kate McPhail; Sara McPhail; Matt Cunes; and Chris Cunes.
Ken is preceded in death by his parents, Irene and Neil McPhail, and cousin, Craig Williams.
Internment will take place at the Leelanau Township Cemetery in Northport, MI. A celebration of Ken will be held in the spring that will certainly include golf and good stories.
Online condolences or remembrances of Ken are welcome at www.martinson.info.
Arrangements are under the direction of Martinson Funeral Home, 115 North Saint Joseph, Street Suttons Bay, MI 49682, (231) 271-3441.