Kenneth Thomsen

Kenneth Thomsen obituary, Cherry Valley, NY

Kenneth Thomsen

Kenneth Thomsen Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Ottman Funeral Home - Cherry Valley on Oct. 1, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Ken Thomsen, of Unadilla, New York, passed away on the afternoon of July 13th at Bassett Medical Center, Cooperstown, New York, in the loving presence of his friends and his wonderful care team.
He was born on January 25th, 1941 in Los Angeles, California to Waldemar "Walter" and Alfhild "Elfie" (Hagen) Thomsen. After graduating from Beverly Hills High School, he studied photography at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. He then enlisted in the United States Naval Reserve and served as a Photographer's Mate Petty Officer Third Class aboard the USS Midway during the Vietnam War, earning a National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. After his honorable discharge, he started Thomsen Graphics in Los Angeles, where he worked for many years, before choosing to retire to central New York to look after his family.
Ken was a skilled model ship builder. Many examples of his work can be found in museums, but most are held in private collections. His attention to fine detail was notable in just about everything Ken did. He also enjoyed spending his time with his dogs, cooking, reading, and maintaining his acreage. Later in life, Ken enjoyed spending his time with his cat, Garfield.
Ken was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Thomas. He is survived by his friends, of which he kept very few, but very close. His smile and stories will be dearly missed.
A private service will be held in August.
To send online condolences please visit ww.ottmanfuneralhome.com
Arrangements are under the care of the Ottman Funeral Home, Cherry Valley, NY with cremation taking place at The Leatherstocking Crematory, Cherry Valley. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Kenneth, please visit our Tree Store.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Kenneth's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Kenneth Thomsen's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Kenneth Thomsen's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?