Kenneth Pettijohn

Kenneth Allen Pettijohn, 79, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, at Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, Maryland. He was born on November 13, 1945, to Frank and Eleanor Pettijohn in Mountain View, Idaho. He grew up in Bensenville, Illinois, and graduated from Fenton High School, Class of 1963. He attended Knox College, Class of 1967, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Nu fraternity. While attending Knox College, Ken met his wife Margot (Kahn), whom he married in 1969 at her childhood home in Baltimore, Maryland.

A long time CPA, Ken had an understanding and passion for numbers and details. He thrived in an environment where he could put his mind to solving intricate problems based on details. Being a CPA gave him great joy and sustained his passion for the numerical side of the universe. Outside of accounting, Ken found solace in his time with his wife Margot, his children Michelle and Cheryl, and his sister Diane. He both loved a party and found peace in being alone.

His varied passions included being a member of the Maryland Power Squadron, an avid stunt kite flyer, an eagle spotting connoisseur, and a producer of well researched and executed meals. He put his love of details into all aspects of his hobbies. Ken tied the correct knots on the stunt kites, researched and used the ideal mushroom ratio in meatloaf, and found the best spots to see the bald eagles on the C&O Canal. He will be remembered and missed for his joy in creating food and entertaining his family and friends.

Ken is preceded in death by his loving wife of 49 years, Margot (Kahn) Pettijohn, his parents, and his brother, Terry. He is survived by his daughters: Cheryl (Conrad) Stuntz and Michelle (Andy) Powell; his grandchildren: Cooper and Lexi Stuntz and Madelyn and Kathryn Powell; and three siblings: Diane (Steve) Thomas, Dave Pettijohn, and Barbara Pettijohn.

The family is planning a private memorial service. Donations may be made to Knox College (https://www.knox.edu/support-knox/ways-of-giving) in memory of Kenneth Pettijohn.