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Kenneth Olinger Obituary
On February 27th, 1965, Kenneth married the love of his life, Carolyn Jean Brady, from Charlevoix, Michigan. It was early on in their lives together when Ken was called into active duty with the Air Force, and he would be transferred all over the country. He was stationed in Kansas, Louisiana, Thailand, Vietnam, Guam, and Arizona. Ken and Caroyn welcomed five children, Tammy (Jim) Coyne (MN), Wendy Olinger (WA), Heidi (Brian) Wierenga (MI), Kendra (Josh) Seekins (TN), and Kenny Jr. (Michelle) Olinger (MI). Kenneth will be missed by his 17 grandchildren; 4 great-grandkids; his surviving siblings, Lila Speckels (SD), Donna Todd (CO), Vicki and Jim Kettler (CO), Donnie Olinger (CT); sister-in-law, Sandy Olinger (SD); and many nieces and nephews. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; brother-n-law, Milo Speckels, brothers, Vern Olinger, Rodney Olinger; and granddaughter, Kaylee Ann Olinger.
Ken was an active member of the Kawanis club for 35 years. Through his 53 years of serving, he received the Pride and Professionalism Award, The Outstanding Airman Award, The National Defense Award, The Good Conduct Award, The Vietnam Service Award, The Humanitarian Service Award, The Cold War Service Award, and the Honorable Discharge Award. In total, Kenneth Lee Olinger served 23 years in the United States Air Force and 29 ½ years in civil service. Ken retired at the age of 73, and through those years, he gave love to his Country, Family, and God.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to be made in Kenneth L. Olinger's memory, sent to South Dakota American Legion Foundation, P.O. Box 67, Watertown, SD 57201.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Olinger
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6 Entries
V. Scott
February 13, 2026
Thank you for your service Sir
Joyce kuete & Thomas Zeigler
February 13, 2026
Caroline. I'm so sorry to hear about Ken's passing .Tom and I will miss seeing him walking in the park with the sweet little pup. He's been a fine neighbor for so long ...we'll never forget him. Bless you and the family as you find peace and love knowing he is with The Lord.
Kenny Jr.
February 12, 2026
Dad, you were the ultimate blueprint for what a man should be. Growing up, I didn't have to look far to find a hero or a role model; I just had to look at you.
Your 23 years as a Master Sergeant in the Air Force taught me about discipline and duty, but it was the way you came home and loved us that taught me about heart. You traveled the world-from Thailand to Guam-but your favorite place was always surrounded by your family.
You showed me that a man could be both tough as nails and a true 'gentleman'. Whether you were serving the community through the Kiwanis Club or simply being there for us, you led by example. You didn´t just tell me how to live; you showed me through your 53 years of dedicated service to your country and your years of devotion to Mom.
Thank you for being the steady anchor in my life. I´m so proud to be your son, and I´ll spend the rest of my life trying to live up to the standard you set.
We love you, Dad.
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Patricia Rose
February 11, 2026
Sympathy to the family Worked with Ken many years Always a gentleman
Janice Walker
February 11, 2026
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. It was a pleasure working with Ken for so many years.
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