Ken Shulman

1955 - 2007

Ken Shulman, a man who loved life and who considered everyone his friend, passed away from unexpected causes connected to sleep apnea at his home on Friday, August 3, 2007, at the age of 51. Ken was known for his great sense of humor, friendships all over the world, and the ability to ignite a room with his humor.  He also took great pleasure in helping others – always without seeking recognition.

Ken received his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Oregon and lived in Eugene for 28 years, and spent the last ten years with his wife, Linnea. He was the owner of Ken Shulman Painting, Inc., a commercial and residential painting company. Ken is fondly remembered by his classmates as one of those uniquely brilliant people who rarely attended law classes but was able to read the materials on his own and score brilliantly on the exams. Although Ken had great legal skills, he chose instead to work with people and express his gifts through his premium quality paint jobs and ability to connect with workers and customers. He recently started a successful real estate business in La Paz, Mexico, and dreamed of retiring on a hillside there with his wife.

Ken's group of friends includes people from all walks of life, and he had the ability to bring a diverse group of friends together, and make everyone feel comfortable. Ken never judged people by their outward appearances and yet, he was no pushover. He was independent, felt strongly about personal rights, and would passionately engage in debate about politics (his keen memory of history always put the discussion to his advantage). Ken also loved sports and for years was competitive on the softball field, bowling leagues, and supporting his kids in whatever endeavor they chose.

While Ken loved Eugene and would work non-stop in the painting business April through September, his true love was Mexico.  He was known to many people as the "Mayor of Puerto Vallarta" because of his outgoing nature and frequent trips there. Ken had boundless generosity, particularly with those who were hardworking, but struggling to make ends meet, whether they were friends, employees, or acquaintances. In fact, he was so generous with beach vendors in Mexico, many would bless him when they saw him on the street. Ken didn't seek recognition for his generosity, simply enjoying the opportunity to be of assistance.

Ken was a loving and supportive father figure to four step-children and was proud of the accomplishments of each of them. He also loved his dogs (calling them "my babies") and spoiled them rotten always looking for a reason to give them treats.

Ken approached his painting business as a craft. He had a very high standard for himself and others and rewarded his employees for a job well done. One of the ways he did so was with a Happy Hour every Friday at his house where the Beck's beer flowed freely. He was known in the business for being a good person to work for and had many long-term employees.

Ken is survived by his loving wife Linnea, sons Michael, Justin and Evan Ruffier, and a daughter Renee Reekie, along with his parents Sol Shulman and Eleanor Campbell Shulman and three brothers. 

A Celebration of Ken's life will be held on Thursday, August 9 at 3 p.m. at Armitage Park, site "H". All those who knew Ken are invited to attend. Ken would want us to be comfortable, so wear casual attire or your work clothes.  The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Greenhill Humane Society, SPCA or the Children's Miracle Network.

Please sign the guest book at www.registerguard.com/legacy