Kenneth E. Sjoboen

Ken loved God and lived life to the fullest. Born in Tacoma, Washington, on December 22, 1953, he and his family moved to Santa Cruz when he was six to join the family business, Cameron Overhead Doors. Ken took over the business when his father retired, and his brother returned to Washington. Over the years, he worked and later contracted with other garage door companies. His problem-solving skills and sharp mind made him a sought-after designer, installer, and repairman. There was rarely an issue he couldn't fix. His retirement was ultimately forced by the aggressive progression of cancer. Ken was known for his love of adventure, fun, and making the most of every moment. Whether playing roller hockey, golf, foot golf, disc golf, watching football, backpacking, downhill skiing, or even skydiving-twice-Ken embraced each experience with enthusiasm. When he wanted to unwind, he could spend hours watching sermons or comedy videos, always appreciating both faith and laughter. Above all, Ken deeply loved his family. He wanted them to have the best experiences and opportunities in life. He also had a love for driving, sometimes with no destination other than the joy of the road. With an incredible memory for routes, he could give directions from almost anywhere to anywhere-a skill especially useful before the days of GPS. He created wonderful memories with Cheryl as they traveled across the country in their trailer, visiting friends and family. But his greatest passion was his faith. He loved studying the Bible and teaching others about God's love. Ken and Cheryl devoted years to leading the Pathfinder youth program, becoming surrogate parents to many young people. A lifelong member of the Santa Cruz Seventh-Day Adventist Church, he enjoyed coordinating Bible studies, evangelistic series, and delivering sermons. His greatest desire was for everyone he met to experience a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. When Ken was re-diagnosed with cancer, his faith never wavered. He encouraged those around him to "see where God is working" and reminded them that "God is good." In his final days, he spoke often with God and made sure his family knew how much he loved them. He passed away at home on March 22 at the age of 71, surrounded by family. His church family and friends had gathered earlier to pray for him. Ken is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Cheryl; his children, April Sjoboen Guimarães (Salomão Guimarães Neto) and Brigette (Yessica) Sjoboen; and his grandchild, Diego Sjoboen, son of Brigette and Yessica. He is also survived by his siblings, Ron Sjoboen and Sharon Hamerly. He was predeceased by his parents, Clarence and Jean Sjoboen. A celebration of Life will be held at Santa Cruz Seventh-Day Adventist Church (1024 Cayuga Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95062) on Saturday, April 26 beginning at 4:00pm. One day soon, Jesus will return to reunite His children with their loved ones. As the Bible promises: "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we shall be forever with the Lord." - 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 In lieu of flowers, the Sjoboen family prefers that you make a donation to the Santa Cruz SDA Church for the student aid or roofing fund https://adventistgiving.org/donate/ANP8OG