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Kenneth La Fountaine Obituary
Kenneth "Ken" D. La FOUNTAINE Ken La Fountaine, an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, beloved husband of Beth La Fountaine left this world on April 24, 2006 surrounded by his soul mate, family and friends. Ken was born on August 15, 1949 in Seattle, Washington, to Peter and Edla La Fontaine. Ken was raised in Seattle and Edmonds and graduated from Meadowdale High School in 1967. He graduated from The Evergreen State College with a degree in Native American Studies in 1974 and graduated with a Masters of Public Administration in Tribal Governance in 2004. A tenured Professor at Shoreline Community College he taught Multicultural Studies for 34 years and left a legacy of students and faculty who loved and honored him. Ken was active in the First Nations Club serving as advisor; he planned and implemented three Native American Symposiums put on by the club. Ken is well respected and well loved by Native American students and educators as well as by the greater Seattle education community. He served on many boards and committees dealing with diversity and higher education. He mentored many students throughout his years of teaching and those students went on to become leaders within their communities in many different disciplines including law, arts and medicine. He was the consummate host and enjoyed companionship with all. He treated every guest in his home like royalty. He loved to laugh and was the king of the "one liner". Ken was a long time Husky fan, Seahawks fan and Thunderbird fan. He loved to golf. Some of his favorite past times were to go golfing with his wife, Beth, travel to visit his many friends, and bicycling around the city. Ken is survived by the love of his life, Beth, father, Peter La Fontaine, brother, Allan La Fontaine, sisters, Ramona Menish (Joe) and Kathleen Gilbo (Bob), special in-laws and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, many friends and his kitty. A Celebration of Ken's Life will be held on Friday, April 28, 2006, at Shoreline Community College gymnasium, from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. "Probably me more than anybody on the face of the earth, I have had one of the best lives that any one human being can ever hope to have." In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to, The Ken LaFountaine Endowed Diversity Scholarship. This endowment was created in honor of Ken's advocacy for underrepresented students in pursuit of higher education (www.uwfoundation.org/diversity) or Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth La Fountaine
Krista Williams
September 1, 2020
I went to ECETI this weekend. I thought about you a lot and how if you were still here I would have loved to bring you there. I could use your wisdom these days. I miss you so much.
Uncle Ken was the brightest light. He taught me so much about giving and being a leader by example. He taught me to live big and love life. I often seek his advice when I am looking into new opportunities for volunteering. I think, what would Uncle Ken do. Because if I can figure that out, I know I am doing the right thing.
I love you.
Rose Laughlin
August 10, 2020
For some reason I was thinking about my Native American studies teacher that I had at Shoreline in 1988, Ken LaFountaine. I remember running into him in Venice in 1990 when he was on sabbatical. I recognized him by his voice, as I passed him and heard him speaking English. He was an excellent teacher.
I don’t know what compelled me to look him up to see if he was still teaching, after all these years. But, I’m so sorry that he died so young. Such an important person that seemed to have left a vast legacy. What an incredible and generous person. To his wife and family that must still miss him greatly, I send my deepest condolences.
Sincerely, Rose Laughlin
Krista Williams
November 2, 2018
I think about you so much. As I am going to volunteer this weekend, you are in my heart, as always, guiding me and showing me how to be helpful to others. I am going to finally graduate from college next year. Thank you for being you. Love you forever.
Lifelong student,Gretchen Easterberg
May 25, 2007
My horizons expanded when I visited and viewed Professor Kenneth D. LaFountaine's lecture at Edmonds Community College, named "The First Thanksgiving", through the Brown Bag Lecture Series in 1995. That situation was my first and only experience in Kenneth D. La Fountaine's presence, but at that time, I did perceive that he was a
kind individual who was dedicated to educating others.
This evening, while seeking
Ken La Fountaine's contact information, for the purpose
of getting reference materials
for educational reasons, I saw
his obituary notice.
Upon viewing that notice, I am
very sorrowful over the loss
of a great contributor to the community, whose magnitude positively changed lives.
However, Kenneth's excellent
works will be remembered, and
many individuals whom he
influenced will carry on his teachings.
I offer you my deepest condolences.
May you continue to feel the love and support of family and friends.
Peter La Fontaine
May 23, 2007
These are difficult times for me, rolling back the years of your childhood. I know there’s lots of memories I’ve forgotten, I wish your mother was alive; she could add many more memories.
I remember when you were born at Doctor’s Hospital in Seattle. After five days in the hospital we brought you home. After putting you in your crib, your brother Allan took a peek at you for the first time and exclaimed, “A wow-wow!” I ‘m not sure if you ever forgave him for calling you a dog.
As time went on you became sickly because you were unable to digest cow’s milk. The doctor recommended goat’s milk. It so happened my cousin Bill, who lived in White Center had a neighbor with goats. We were able to stabilize your stomach problems.
We could never figure out why you would wait so long, while out playing, to use the bathroom. I think you were so busy playing you never thought about anything else until nature called. You would run to the house screaming, “I have to go hur-hur, I have to go hur-hur.” Hur-hur was a shortened version of your mother’s phrase hurry, hurry when you kids would have to use the potty.
When we lived in North Greenwood, there was a wooded lot that all the neighborhood kids would play in. One day you were all playing cowboys and Indians and you were hit in the forehead with a toy metal gun. It split your forehead wide open. There were no medical clinics or hospitals nearby; the only hospitals were downtown. Your mother had to be the nurse and doctor. She washed your forehead, put antibacterial medication on the wound and wrapped your head with gauze. You survived the bloody battle.
One hot, lazy Saturday afternoon we all sat at the table and ate lunch. After lunch you kids went out into the yard to play. Your mother was checking on you kids when she saw you running through the yard at full speed. Right behind you was Ramona chasing you with a baseball bat. Your mother intervened and took the bat from Ramona. She set the bat in the house and continued with her activities. About five minutes later she heard you screaming and ran to check on you. There was Ramona with the bat chasing you through the yard again. This time Ramona was disciplined and the bat put out of her reach. Your mother saved Ramona from a lifetime behind bars and prolonged your life. We never did know what made Ramona so mad.
We also had a very smart dog-named Bill. One Saturday afternoon your mother baked a double-layered chocolate cake with chocolate frosting. The cake was for the Girl Scouts and it was to be delivered on Sunday afternoon. Your mother put the cake on top of the refrigerator. On Sunday morning when she got up there was a chair pulled up to the refrigerator, a knife sticking in the cake and the cake was mutilated. Your mother lined up all you kids and asked, “Who got into the cake?” You looked up at her with chocolate frosting all over your face and said, “ That darn dog.” Anything that went wrong after that was always Bill the dog’s fault.
As you grew older you were ready for a bicycle. We were still living in Greenwood. On 103rd and Aurora was a bike shop specializing in Schwinn bikes. We took you to the shop and you selected the bike you wanted. You hadn’t learned to ride a bike yet so there were many scrapes and bruises and falls. I really commend you, as I am 84 years old and never learned to ride a bike.
In 1958 we moved to Edmonds in the Meadowdale area. There was lots of room and it was close to Puget Sound. It was out in the country and very pleasant. The kids started in a new school, Lynndale Elementary, about two miles south of our house. One day Kenneth came home from school and asked his mother if he could bring home one of the white rats the class had been studying. His mother said, “No.” She relayed the information to me and I agreed. We did not want any rats on the premises. Kenneth continued to hound his mother about the pet white rat. His mother decided that since Kenneth’s school bus arrived at school five minutes before school began she would give him permission to adopt the rat. She figured the three classroom pets would all be adopted by the time Kenneth arrived. When I got home from work that evening there was a cage with a white rat. Kenneth ran all the way to school that morning so he would be the first student to adopt one of the classroom pets. He outwitted his mom and dad. He asked his mom to help name the rat. His mother asked him what they called the rat at school. He said there were three rats, A, B and C. His mother asked,” Which rat did you get?” He said Rat C and his mother named the new pet Ratsy. He was given explicit orders that Ratsy was to stay in its cage at all times. Kenneth would get home from school several hours before we would arrive from work. He would take Ratsy out of its cage and let it run all over the house. That rat took ten years off my life. One day I was getting ready for a wedding. I put on my dress shoes when low and behold I noticed Ratsy had chewed the front of each shoe. He also chewed the cord to the toaster. One day Ratsy was frightened by our kitten and ran under our electric range. It was a miracle he wasn’t electrocuted. I had to run down the stairs, turn off the circuit, move the range, pull the plug and remove the rear panel off the range. Ratsy had crawled behind the stove packing. Another time, Kenneth’s Aunt Ella came to visit. She was not aware of the pet rat in our house. Kenneth was upstairs playing with his pet when it escaped. Ratsy ran down the stairs, jumped onto the sofa and up onto Aunt Ella’s shoulder. Aunt Ella screamed, jumped three feet into the air and almost jumped out the window. At one time I thought of buying Rat-B-Gone but I figured the dog or the kids might eat it. I thought about going to the Humane Society and getting several cats to do the job. Kenneth loved his pet rat. One day a few years after Kenneth got Ratsy I came home from work one afternoon. The kids were in the backyard crying. There wrapped in an old towel and placed in a shoebox was Ratsy. I asked what was going on and Kenneth said through his tears that Ratsy had died. I wanted to jump up and down with joy but I felt so sorry for Kenneth. Kenneth and Allan dug a grave for Ratsy and because of Kenneth’s attention to Ratsy, the pet rat had lived 2 years past its’ life expectancy.
During the summer months we would take family vacations and camp in British Columbia at the 100 mile House at Canim Lake. We would fish for trout in the lake. Kenneth never was much of a fisherman so the owner of the resort, Mr. Terrel, taught Kenneth to water-ski. He became very proficient at water-skiing.
Kenneth did lots of kind deeds for others. His elderly great Uncle Roscoe was having his driveway repaved. He needed to remove the old driveway before the new one could be put in. Kenneth removed the old driveway with a pick and shovel, hauled the debris with a wheelbarrow, and piled the debris in a corner of the yard. It took him ten days. After removing the driveway he smoothed the area so the paving crew could put in the new driveway.
In 1967 Kenneth graduated from Meadowdale High School. We were so proud of him. He was dressed in a white shirt, necktie and sports coat. It was a hot, muggy night; sweat was running down our backs as we watched hundreds of students walk across the stage. After graduation he worked at Boeing in Everett for a year or so until the big lay off’s in the 70’s.
In 1969 Kenneth traveled to Europe. He was 20 years old. He wrote often ad then we didn’t hear from him for quite awhile. One day we got a phone call and it was Kenneth. He was in Chicago at O’Hare Airport, and he was very sick. He told us he would be on the next flight from Chicago to Seattle. We drove to Sea-Tac to meet him and he was a very sick young man. We rushed him to our family physician, Dr. Mac, at Phillips Clinic in Mountlake Terrace. The doctor examined him and found Kenneth was suffering from dehydration. He gave him some shots, told him to drink lots of liquids and recommended bed rest for a week. After he got home he began to perk up. He said his trip wasn’t that exciting because it was cut short. He said the French were not that friendly, unlike the British. While in Paris, however, he watched Neil Armstrong land on the moon and make his famous walk on the moon’s surface. He said many of the businesses had large plate glass windows and everyone had television sets on so he could watch from the street. There were large groups of people watching the event on the sidewalks of Paris.
He made another trip to Europe in the 1990’s and he covered many countries including England, France, Spain, Germany, Russia and Finland. He also visited Morocco. We kept in touch on a regular basis. The American Express in each major city receives mail for travelers and holds it for thirty days. Kenneth would keep me informed of his itinerary and I would send letters. He wanted news clippings from home about sports, local news, national and world news. He said that the papers in Europe are printed in the native language so he could not read them. He also told me that some countries don’t have toilet paper in their bathrooms and that some countries sell toilet paper after you come out of the bathroom. His advice was if you travel to Europe take lots of tp with you.
While you were getting your college education in the 1970’s you would join the Viet Nam War protesters. It was a national issue with college and university students across the country protesting the involvement of the United States government in a civil war. Today we realize that the Viet Nam War was wrong. I was a hawk during that time and supported our government in the war effort. About ten years ago I attended your course on Viet Nam. I really learned a lot about Viet Nam.
In late 1978 you moved in with me. I had an apartment in Lynnwood. In 1979 when the Sonics won the NBA World Championship we went out and celebrated with the rest of Lynwood, Edmonds and the surrounding area. Booze flowed like water. The next morning I had to get up at 5 AM and begin a 17 day trip with your Aunt Alice and Uncle Red. We traveled to Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Turtle Mountain, the Black Hills, Deadwood, Mt. Rushmore, and on to Little Big Horn. At Little Big Horn we visited your Uncle Fred and ten left to visit Yellowstone National Park. During my trip you took care of my apartment and I did not have to worry.
Kenneth had a heart of gold. I received many gifts from him on special occasions. I still have many of the gifts. When he was in Holland he sent me 144 tulip bulbs for my garden. One year he gave me a gift certificate for a weekend in Port Townsend at Fort Warden. Mary Ann and I went, as did Kenneth and some friends. A year earlier the movie An Officer and a Gentleman had been filmed there.
Marrying Beth was one of the most wonderful things you did. She is true blue. She took excellent care of you during the months that you were dealing with cancer. She was your doctor, nurse, dietician, counselor, advisor, cook, housekeeper and anything else the moment required. When you left us she was holding your hand. I have the highest respect for her and am proud to call her my daughter-in-law. She was the impetus for the many upgrades and remodels you did to your house. She taught you to drive a nail into wood or at least pound a hammer. She made a home for you with her love and caring. You were a lucky man.
Your siblings showed their love and support during those last difficult months. Ramona flew from Juneau on a regular basis to be with you. She was with you when you left us and called to let Allan and I know that you were on your journey to the spirit world. Allan and Kathleen made many, many trips to your home to be with you and support you as you fought cancer. In the last week many, many relatives and friends were at your home as they helped you to move to the next part of your journey with support and love and to support Beth as she helped you transition.
When Ramona called to tell us you had left us my first thought was of Psalm 23, “Even though I walk through the valley of death, I fear no evil, for thou art with me, thy rod, thy staff they comfort me.”
After you left for a better world a celebration of your life was held at Shoreline Community College where you had taught for 36 years. I couldn’t believe the numbers of people attending. You touched so many lives. The flag was raised to half-mast until the President of Shoreline gently reminded his staff that a Presidential Proclamation is the only way a US flag may be flown at half-mast. We had a good laugh over that honor. Your Tlingit friends held at traditional Forty Day Party at Discovery Park-United Indians of All Tribes in June. The memorials were well attended and very healing. In the future a totem pole will be raised at Shoreline Community College in memory and honor of the hard work and dedication you gave to the many students whose lives you touched and guided.
There are so many memories I have of you as my son. I don’t always remember all of them. But one thing I am sure of is that someday we will meet again and until then, farewell, I miss you and will always love you.
Dad
Peter La Fontaine
May 20, 2007
These are difficult times for me, rolling back the years of your childhood. I know there’s lots of memories I’ve forgotten, I wish your mother was alive; she could add many more memories.
I remember when you were born at Doctor’s Hospital in Seattle. After five days in the hospital we brought you home. After putting you in your crib, your brother Allan took a peek at you for the first time and exclaimed, “A wow-wow!” I ‘m not sure if you ever forgave him for calling you a dog.
As time went on you became sickly because you were unable to digest cow’s milk. The doctor recommended goat’s milk. It so happened my cousin Bill, who lived in White Center had a neighbor with goats. We were able to stabilize your stomach problems.
We could never figure out why you would wait so long, while out playing, to use the bathroom. I think you were so busy playing you never thought about anything else until nature called. You would run to the house screaming, “I have to go hur-hur, I have to go hur-hur.” Hur-hur was a shortened version of your mother’s phrase hurry, hurry when you kids would have to use the potty.
When we lived in North Greenwood, there was a wooded lot that all the neighborhood kids would play in. One day you were all playing cowboys and Indians and you were hit in the forehead with a toy metal gun. It split your forehead wide open. There were no medical clinics or hospitals nearby; the only hospitals were downtown. Your mother had to be the nurse and doctor. She washed your forehead, put antibacterial medication on the wound and wrapped your head with gauze. You survived the bloody battle.
One hot, lazy Saturday afternoon we all sat at the table and ate lunch. After lunch you kids went out into the yard to play. Your mother was checking on you kids when she saw you running through the yard at full speed. Right behind you was Ramona chasing you with a baseball bat. Your mother intervened and took the bat from Ramona. She set the bat in the house and continued with her activities. About five minutes later she heard you screaming and ran to check on you. There was Ramona with the bat chasing you through the yard again. This time Ramona was disciplined and the bat put out of her reach. Your mother saved Ramona from a lifetime behind bars and prolonged your life. We never did know what made Ramona so mad.
We also had a very smart dog-named Bill. One Saturday afternoon your mother baked a double-layered chocolate cake with chocolate frosting. The cake was for the Girl Scouts and it was to be delivered on Sunday afternoon. Your mother put the cake on top of the refrigerator. On Sunday morning when she got up there was a chair pulled up to the refrigerator, a knife sticking in the cake and the cake was mutilated. Your mother lined up all you kids and asked, “Who got into the cake?” You looked up at her with chocolate frosting all over your face and said, “ That darn dog.” Anything that went wrong after that was always Bill the dog’s fault.
As you grew older you were ready for a bicycle. We were still living in Greenwood. On 103rd and Aurora was a bike shop specializing in Schwinn bikes. We took you to the shop and you selected the bike you wanted. You hadn’t learned to ride a bike yet so there were many scrapes and bruises and falls. I really commend you, as I am 84 years old and never learned to ride a bike.
In 1958 we moved to Edmonds in the Meadowdale area. There was lots of room and it was close to Puget Sound. It was out in the country and very pleasant. The kids started in a new school, Lynndale Elementary, about two miles south of our house. One day you came home from school and asked your mother if you could bring home one of the white rats the class had been studying. Your mother said, “No.” She relayed the information to me and I agreed. We did not want any rats on the premises. You continued to hound your mother about the pet white rat. Your mother decided that since your school bus arrived at school five minutes before school began she would grant permission to adopt the rat. She figured the three classroom pets would all be adopted by the time you arrived. When I got home from work that evening there was a cage with a white rat. You ran all the way to school that morning so you would be the first student to adopt one of the classroom pets. You outwitted your mom and dad. You asked your mom to help name the rat. Your mother asked you what they called the rat at school. You said there were three rats, A, B and C. Your mother asked,” Which rat did you get?” You said Rat C and your mother named the new pet Ratsy. You were given explicit orders that Ratsy was to stay in its cage at all times. You would get home from school several hours before we would arrive from work.You would take Ratsy out of its cage and let it run all over the house. That rat took ten years off my life. One day I was getting ready for a wedding. I put on my dress shoes when low and behold I noticed Ratsy had chewed the front of each shoe. He also chewed the cord to the toaster. One day Ratsy was frightened by our kitten and ran under our electric range. It was a miracle he wasn’t electrocuted. I had to run down the stairs, turn off the circuit, move the range, pull the plug and remove the rear panel off the range. Ratsy had crawled behind the stove packing. Another time, your Aunt Ella came to visit. She was not aware of the pet rat in our house. Kenneth was upstairs playing with his pet when it escaped. Ratsy ran down the stairs, jumped onto the sofa and up onto Aunt Ella’s shoulder. Aunt Ella screamed, jumped three feet into the air and almost jumped out the window. At one time I thought of buying Rat-B-Gone but I figured the dog or the kids might eat it. I thought about going to the Humane Society and getting several cats to do the job. YOU loved YOUR pet rat. One day a few years after Kenneth got Ratsy I came home from work one afternoon. The kids were in the backyard crying. There, wrapped in an old towel and placed in a shoebox, was Ratsy. I asked what was going on and you said through tears that Ratsy had died. I wanted to jump up and down with joy but I felt so sorry for you. Kenneth and Allan dug a grave for Ratsy and because of Kenneth’s attention to Ratsy, the pet rat had lived 2 years past its’ life expectancy.
During the summer months we would take family vacations and camp in British Columbia at the 100 mile House at Canim Lake. We would fish for trout in the lake. Kenneth never was much of a fisherman so the owner of the resort, Mr. Terrel, taught Kenneth to water-ski. He became very proficient at water-skiing.
Kenneth did lots of kind deeds for others. His elderly great Uncle Roscoe was having his driveway repaved. He needed to remove the old driveway before the new one could be put in. Kenneth removed the old driveway with a pick and shovel, hauled the debris with a wheelbarrow, and piled the debris in a corner of the yard. It took him ten days. After removing the driveway he smoothed the area so the paving crew could put in the new driveway.
In 1967 Kenneth graduated from Meadowdale High School. We were so proud of him. He was dressed in a white shirt, necktie and sports coat. It was a hot, muggy night; sweat was running down our backs as we watched hundreds of students walk across the stage. After graduation he worked at Boeing in Everett for a year or so until the big lay off’s in the 70’s.
In 1969 Kenneth traveled to Europe. He was 20 years old. He wrote often ad then we didn’t hear from him for quite awhile. One day we got a phone call and it was Kenneth. He was in Chicago at O’Hare Airport, and he was very sick. He told us he would be on the next flight from Chicago to Seattle. We drove to Sea-Tac to meet him and he was a very sick young man. We rushed him to our family physician, Dr. Mac, at Phillips Clinic in Mountlake Terrace. The doctor examined him and found Kenneth was suffering from dehydration. He gave him some shots, told him to drink lots of liquids and recommended bed rest for a week. After he got home he began to perk up. He said his trip wasn’t that exciting because it was cut short. He said the French were not that friendly, unlike the British. While in Paris, however, he watched Neil Armstrong land on the moon and make his famous walk on the moon’s surface. He said many of the businesses had large plate glass windows and everyone had television sets on so he could watch from the street. There were large groups of people watching the event on the sidewalks of Paris.
He made another trip to Europe in the 1990’s and he covered many countries including England, France, Spain, Germany, Russia and Finland. He also visited Morocco. We kept in touch on a regular basis. The American Express in each major city receives mail for travelers and holds it for thirty days. Kenneth would keep me informed of his itinerary and I would send letters. He wanted news clippings from home about sports, local news, national and world news. He said that the papers in Europe are printed in the native language so he could not read them. He also told me that some countries don’t have toilet paper in their bathrooms and that some countries sell toilet paper after you come out of the bathroom. His advice was if you travel to Europe take lots of tp with you.
While you were getting your college education in the 1970’s you would join the Viet Nam War protesters. It was a national issue with college and university students across the country protesting the involvement of the United States government in a civil war. Today we realize that the Viet Nam War was wrong. I was a hawk during that time and supported our government in the war effort. About ten years ago I attended your course on Viet Nam. I really learned a lot about Viet Nam.
In late 1978 you moved in with me. I had an apartment in Lynnwood. In 1979 when the Sonics won the NBA World Championship we went out and celebrated with the rest of Lynwood, Edmonds and the surrounding area. Booze flowed like water. The next morning I had to get up at 5 AM and begin a 17 day trip with your Aunt Alice and Uncle Red. We traveled to Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Turtle Mountain, the Black Hills, Deadwood, Mt. Rushmore, and on to Little Big Horn. At Little Big Horn we visited your Uncle Fred and ten left to visit Yellowstone National Park. During my trip you took care of my apartment and I did not have to worry.
Kenneth had a heart of gold. I received many gifts from him on special occasions. I still have many of the gifts. When he was in Holland he sent me 144 tulip bulbs for my garden. One year he gave me a gift certificate for a weekend in Port Townsend at Fort Warden. Mary Ann and I went, as did Kenneth and some friends. A year earlier the movie An Officer and a Gentleman had been filmed there.
Marrying Beth was one of the most wonderful things you did. She is true blue. She took excellent care of you during the months that you were dealing with cancer. She was your doctor, nurse, dietician, counselor, advisor, cook, housekeeper and anything else the moment required. When you left us she was holding your hand. I have the highest respect for her and am proud to call her my daughter-in-law. She was the impetus for the many upgrades and remodels you did to your house. She taught you to drive a nail into wood or at least pound a hammer. She made a home for you with her love and caring. You were a lucky man.
Your siblings showed their love and support during those last difficult months. Ramona flew from Juneau on a regular basis to be with you. She was with you when you left us and called to let Allan and I know that you were on your journey to the spirit world. Allan and Kathleen made many, many trips to your home to be with you and support you as you fought cancer. In the last week many, many relatives and friends were at your home as they helped you to move to the next part of your journey with support and love and to support Beth as she helped you transition.
When Ramona called to tell us you had left us my first thought was of Psalm 23, “Even though I walk through the valley of death, I fear no evil, for thou art with me, thy rod, thy staff they comfort me.”
After you left for a better world a celebration of your life was held at Shoreline Community College where you had taught for 36 years. I couldn’t believe the numbers of people attending. You touched so many lives. The flag was raised to half-mast until the President of Shoreline gently reminded his staff that a Presidential Proclamation is the only way a US flag may be flown at half-mast. We had a good laugh over that honor. Your Tlingit friends held at traditional Forty Day Party at Discovery Park-United Indians of All Tribes in June. The memorials were well attended and very healing. In the future a totem pole will be raised at Shoreline Community College in memory and honor of the hard work and dedication you gave to the many students whose lives you touched and guided.
There are so many memories I have of you as my son. I don’t always remember all of them. But one thing I am sure of is that someday we will meet again and until then, farewell, I miss you and will always love you.
Dad
Neen, Ramona, Butch, Kenneth, Allen & Pat Spring 1958
Pat Vivier
April 24, 2007
To the Family of Kenneth LaFontaine, this (see the photo) is the way I rememeber life in the 50's with Kenneth and his family. We were like brothers and sisters, always at each others homes enjoying play together and just having a ball. After reading all the other expressions of love and friendship everyone had for Kenneth, I feel a great loss, not having kept up our friendship. My prayers go out Pete, Ramona, Neen and Allen on this anniversary of Kenneth's passing. I'm sorry I can't be there tonight to remember and rejoice in his life. My love to all of you.
Leslie Hubertus
April 23, 2007
Ken,
A year ago today I sang the final recital required for my degree here in Austin, Texas. My parents were in the audience, and I remember wishing that you could have been there as well. I thought of you that morning, wishing you'd been able to hear me, and knowing how proud of me you'd have been. I got my degree. Two weeks later I IMmed a friend for your address, to send you a recording of the concert. I collapsed in a grief I had never known, never imagined before I read my friend's short words, so cold on my computer screen.
My best friend here in Austin reminded me that you weren't gone - just that you'd left the physical pains of this world behind.
Looking back, I believe that somehow your spirit was able to be near your loved ones, so that they could feel the blessing of your presence - and that somehow you DID hear me.
You were one of my first professors at Shoreline CC. You quickly became one of the people I respected most, someone I trusted more than most, and someone I considered a true friend. You supported me through my tempestuous time in the SCC SBA. You were always there to cheerlead me through my academic achievements, so proud of me when I earned Phi Beta Kappa, my All-Washington Academic Team, and my AAS. You made a point of coming to the concerts I sang in. You helped me see through windows and doors I never even knew existed.
You helped shape the person I am today.
You always had an open door. Overflowing with stories of Hawai'i, the pub crawl in England, students, experiences, your take on current events, your love for knowledge, beer, golf, and Beth (not in that order, of course) always evident... I am blessed for having met you.
You were, and are one of the best, brightest, most inspiring, caring, loving, intelligent, spiritual, truly good human beings that I believe I will ever have the priviledge to meet in this lifetime.
I still love the totem t-shirt you gave me. I pierced my ears last year so that I could wear the earrings you gave me. I have all the books I ever used in the classes I took from you. I'll always have the image of you in shorts and a Seahawks jacket in the 40-something degree greyness of the Seattle winter/spring.
I'd like to think that somewhere, you are gently chastising me for not having 1-inch margins on this note.
I can still hear you telling me, "Stay outta trouble, youngster!"
You are sorely missed, and never forgotten.
Jacob English
January 23, 2007
Ken was my first and best college professor. Coming straight from the Marine Corps to college, we could not have been greater ideological opposites. However, in the end he proved to be quite an influence on my thinking, urging me to become the schools student government president, join the honors club, and Ken personally approached me to apply for (and eventually win) the All-USA/All-Washington Academic Team award. I'll truly miss seeing Ken's smiling face at every T-birds home game, when I visit home and I'll always remember the great time we had on our trip to Denver for the honors convention. You are a truly classy man my friend and you are missed.
Brian Baanrud
August 16, 2006
Uncle Kanneth!
I wish you a Happy Birthday!
I miss you so very much and miss your sence of humor when we all get older!
you are so very special to me on these kind of occasion's.
here's to YOU Uncle Kenneth!
Bri
Marge Higby
August 16, 2006
Dear Ken, I didn't know your birthdate until I read the message from your brother this morning. You share the same birthday as my dear Mother. Wherever you are, waiting for the rest of us, I am hoping you had a party together. She would enjoy knowing you and had your sense of humor. God Bless....
Allan LaFontaine
August 15, 2006
Happy Birthday my dear Brother,
Kenneth you were born 57 years ago today and taken away from us less then 4 months ago. I think of when we were little boys growing up playing in the little house we lived in on North 96th in Seattle and the house we lived in in Edmonds. We had some very good times and not so good times as brothers will do. No matter what we were always there for each other. As adults I enjoyed the family times we had together at my house, Dads, Neens, Ramonas or yours. You to me were always the hilight of the party. Kenneth, I knew this was going to be hard, but I didn' know it would be this hard. All I want you to know is I love you and Miss you very much. Not a day goes by with out you in my thoughts. Happy Birthday Bro.
Gail Hamley
June 18, 2006
I first met my cousin, Ken, when we moved to Seattle from Fargo, ND. He was quiet in comparison to his brother, Allan. But, he quietly entered my heart. He'd show me things he was interested in and he had a super wit. He'd look into my eyes deeply, like he really wanted to get to know me. As I married and moved out of state, we lost contact until I returned many years later. He had a Halloween party at his house. He was the same Ken I knew before. Funny and thoughtful. His house was filled with friends and family, laughter and fun. I miss you, Ken. I'd love to look deeply into your eyes again. You were so sensitive and loving---truly loving, not just interested, but love was behind your thoughts, words and actions. When I met Beth, I thought, "Yes"--she's perfect. A perfect compliment to you, my cousin. After your death, you appeared to me in a dream, sitting on a porch swing, all dressed up in a suit and tie. I said, What! Never! But you looked at me, full of pride, and I knew: Oh, you are a VIP there, aren't you? A Very Important Person. Yes. Yes. You are. I love you, Ken!
Betsey Barnett
June 15, 2006
Ken, my beloved colleague and friend, I miss you fiercely. I keep your next door office open during the day, and I can almost hear you coming dowm the hall, yelling 'Oh, Betsey, oh, Betsey', in your Minnie Mouse voice. I can hear you next door chortling over some student email or some political nonsense. I miss you, old friend.
Theron Vickery
June 9, 2006
Ken was a great man. He was always kind and treated his students as he would his peers. He freed my mind, along with many others, and tought me to think "outside the box." For the knowledge I've gained from Ken, I could never repay nor thank him enough. We can all learn from his example, and strive to be as genuine and extradordinary as Ken always proved to be. His legacy will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew him and loved him, as so many of us did. I'll always remember you Ken. You were truly one of a kind.
Michele Fahley
June 6, 2006
Ken was the most inspirational person I have had the extreme fortune to know. He was my professor and mentor at Shoreline in 1994 and 1995. It was because of his passion and mentorship that I have followed the path to where I am today. Because of Ken I am an Indian law practioner, fighting to protect, exercise and advance the rights of Native Americans. For that gift, I am forever thankful.
Jerrilyn Hamley
May 30, 2006
Ken was so articulate and educated. He knew history and he taught it well! I remember him even as a young boy as being outspoken. He wasn't afraid to speak his mind. I always looked up to him. The times we spent at the Seattle Indian Center with our community friends was so much fun! I remember when a friend of ours was murdered, he went to the trial every single day. He was a devoted and loyal friend. Sensitive, kind and affectionate. I felt so honored to meet and witness how much Beth loved and took care of him to the end of his time here. Their love touched my heart. It was incredible to witness and experience. Ken continues to live on in the spirit world and continues to touch our lives in many different ways.
Joe Menish
May 29, 2006
The Table of Warriors
Kenneth Duane LaFontaine, Bubba is what I use to call him. I think it came from the nickname his father Pete gave him when he was a baby, which was blub blub. When Ron Copp and I came into his life around “68” or so, Ron shortened it to Bubba.
He used to call me “Jo Jo the dogface boy”. We grew very close over those years of political turmoil and civil unrest. When I married his sister Ramona in 1970 I grew to appreciate his wisdom and friendship. Whenever I fought with Ramona he always took her side. But he would methodically explain and counsel, and I would walk a way with a different perspective about human behavior.
The day Ramona introduced me to him I thought maybe he didn’t like me. Later I said to Ramona “Your brother seemed a little stand offish”.
“No”, she said, “not at all. Heck, he waved and said hi, that’s huge”.
And as the years rolled by we fancied our selves young like-minded revolutionaries who were against racism, poverty, war and anything else we could think of.
Ramona and I raised our two boys in Alaska ; Kenneth never gave up the good fight. I was so proud of him for his scholastic accomplishments in higher education, and he didn’t just talk about change, he lived it . He never stopped trying to make a point. When at the many sports arena events that we attended together, looking into a sea of veterans, never stood up for the national anthem. I never did ask him why he did that. He would have thought of me as a traitor.
But when it came to defiant protests, I really was like a little boy peeking from behind a partially closed door, into a lighted room where my beloved brother-in- law really was sitting down at the table of warriors.
“Kenneth Duane’’, I kept hearing this in his room that last week, (I never called him that), in case you missed it, was a great shooting star of intellectual courage, conviction, and integrity, that is not likely to pass through here again in the near future.
And you know something, the guy had charm, man did he have charm.
He told me in Alaska he had found his true love, and her name was Beth. As we walked together past security at Sea- Tac International Airport after attending my son Paul’s marriage ceremony to Angela, I turned and saw the smile that had finally return to his face again.
Kenneth was a man who loved his family very much. He enjoyed watching the Thunderbirds with his brother Allan and sitting on family members decks, as well as his own, and downing a beer with his bro’. As a teenager he went to watch To Sir With Love thirteen times with his sister Kathleen. They shared a love of feeding the squirrels in their yards and treating their cats as if they were human, a trait I’m sure they both picked up from their Mother Edla. He subscribed to the Turtle Mountain Star, which he read from front to back. When finished he would take his monthly collection to his father, visit and discuss national, state and rez politics .His love of golf was shared with his brother-in-law, Bob. Kenneth loved to play golf with him because he would challenge his game; Kenneth loved a challenge. One day, not too long ago, he told me in private that he wanted to do what Ramona did and get his Masters Degree. That last week Beth set us up on Kenneth’s computer so we could read our email and there it was, framed and hanging just above the desk. Kenneth La Fountaine: Masters of Public Administration in Tribal Governance
He simply adored his friends from his tail gate/ blue grass days of Seahawk and Husky revelry and all the students whose lives he touched.
He loved children and animals and other living things.
This should not have happened. But it did.
Always the educator, one could draw an assumption from this gracious, tall, dark and handsome longhaired gentleman that we must learn to love our friends when they are in the here and now, not when there’re gone.
Sitting in my car under the viaduct, sipping beer and eating our bologna and cheese sandwiches just out side the Kingdome one cold autumn Sunday morning in 1989, Kenneth, who had been reading the sports page, turned to me and said, “Jo Jo, don’t worry, I think we’re going to win this game”.
Tinia La Fontaine
May 16, 2006
When I read Kenneth's quote "Probably me more than anybody on the face of the earth, I have had one of the best lives that any one human being can ever hope to have" I realized that having been brought up in the same family I could say the same thing. There were many La Fontaine cousins and this year we lost two of them. We spent many weekends together and in the summer we went camping and on each other's family vacations. We loved each other more as siblings rather than cousins. Kenneth (we always use his full name for some reason) was always there for each and every one of us whenever we needed a good time, a shoulder to cry on or just somebody to talk to. His passing has reminded us to pack as much love and passion into living as possible because too soon it is over. And so my cousin, have a good journey and until we meet again, I promise that I will do the best I can to love those around me.
Debbie Guerrero
May 11, 2006
I have read each entry and am truly amazed yet not surprised by the absolute love, deep respect, truth, dignity, and care that has been shared by so many lives that his incredible life touched, moved, and inspired. I remember Ken sitting in the sunshine on the balcony at Shoreline helping guide the First Nations students back in 1992. He was quietly confident, as he let us figure things out for ourselves. He gave us hints, but we did the work. That was his way to help shape our paths and instill our confidence in our decisions. He was like a wise Grandpa watching as his precious grandchildren grow right in front of him.
He was there when I returned to school after being out from 1979 to 1991. Every time I saw him on campus he was helping a student. It didn’t seem like he ever had much down time. He was always available, to hear a story, or to say a quick hello. People are not like that in life. We are all so busy, but if Ken said he would be there he was there. I remember when he was working on his Master’s and wanted me to check out The Evergreen State Tribal Governance class. I was busy working on my MSW at the U.W. and raising my three children by myself.
When I graduated last June I asked him to come to my graduation and he was there at Raven’s Feast at Daybreak Star—the real Graduation celebration for Native students from the U.W. I got the opportunity to introduce him to my parents Roy and Barbara Guerrero who will celebrate their 55th wedding anniversary May 12,2006. They loved him from the moment they met him.
When I learned of his diagnosis, a short time after graduation I told my parents and they would ask me how he was doing and always kept him, his wife and family in their prayers. I started praying at every ceremony I went to and asked Creator to keep him with us and kept asking for a miracle…but more importantly, to let him know that he wasn’t ever alone. I have learned from others who have lived with Cancer that it is a very lonely disease.
One night Mona Halcomb brought Beth to a sweatlodge at LaBaTaYah and we prayed, sang, drummed, and cried together for dear Ken. Beth later told me that it gave her something to believe in. It was at that time that I shared the secret I kept from Ken with Beth, that I wasn't ever one of Ken’s students, but he always thought I was. (It was truly my loss...as I have heard and read about what being in his class was like from so many). I learned a lot from him just the same. He taught me how to treat people—by practicing tolerance, love, grace, and dignity--yet standing in your power and beliefs in our unjust world. I make mistakes and I ask forgiveness on my journey, but my life has like so many others been affected by Ken, his beautiful, strong wife Beth, and his loving, devoted family and all the in-laws/outlaws (as some Indians say). I am truly blessed to have my life touched by theirs. You are all always in my family’s prayers.
Many blessings to each of you who have written to express your hearts, your love, and your truth. Thank you for allowing me to express myself here. Aho, Goonalcheesh`
Denise Prosser
May 11, 2006
My love goes out to Beth and family. Ken and I go back a long way. He knew my daughter Chrystel when she was very young, and got to be there when she graduated from Shoreline. He said her name, as he handed out there paper, and then saw her face and said Chrystel! As he gave her a big hug! One of our last conversations was about how he really loved his lights outside, showing a garden path of light and how much he enjoyed that. The little things brought him happiness.
I will see you again someday Ken.
I look forward to it! Much Love,
Denny
Lisa simpson
May 11, 2006
I am so sorry for you loss of your brother and son and friend. I am friends with Kathy his sister and have heard alot about all of his siblings. He went to young and quick. I truly am sorry for the family and for his wife.
jeannette allen
May 9, 2006
Ken: your presence was always marked by an air of happiness and certainty, such that it only followed that you would encourage me to follow through and never give up and that helps when one is unhappy and uncertain at times. my heart was dented when i heard about you but of course, your family must be feeling it so much more so my heart goes out to them. it's said that family and friends can be even closer to someone when they're in "the air" and if we just breathe, maybe they can reside in us. i hope so. until then, you'll be missed, brother.
Judy Bialek
May 7, 2006
To Ken's family and friends...
Ken was one of the most influential teachers I have ever had. He taught with conviction and humor. On top of that he was a nice man with a great sense of humor. His passing makes me sad. It means that others will not get the opportunity to enjoy his lectures or humors. I thank his family and friends for sharing their glimpses of Ken with me through this guest book. My deepest sympathies to his wife Beth, whom I don't know, but am sure Ken love with all his heart... a really big heart.
Rev. Crystal Silva
May 6, 2006
Ken,
My greatest moment was when I was able to look at you and Beth, so very in love, so very unsure of the future, standing there holding hands, saying I DO. I was so very honored and blessed to be able to be the officiant at such a very Blessed and Sacred event. You and Beth faught so valiantly, side by side. The battle was lost, but the war wasn't. You are here with your wonderful wife, and your wonderful family. They have all been blessed by your presence, as you have by theirs. There is now a big hole left in all of their hearts, many tears are flowing. Everyone misses you so very much. You left such a wonderful legacy, which in some ways makes it all that much harder to let go. I am so very thankful that I love and am loved by your brother Allan, and that because of that love I am a part of you, Beth and your families. My love, my tears, my laughter, my smiles, my prayers, and my blessings are with you Ken, and with you Beth...with all of you! There is no greater moment for a minister than to unite two soul mates in matrimoney who already have eternal love on their side. Your bodies may be apart for awhile, but your souls will forever touch. God Bless the two of you, and all those who have been a part of your lives. With Ever lasting Love, Rev. Crystal.
Tom Moran
May 6, 2006
I truly enjoyed running into Ken around the campus and trading hello's. He was a unique man who combined a seriousness of purpose with a wonderful sense of humor. He will be sorely missed.
Frances Belgarde
May 3, 2006
Ken-
I was saddened by the news of your passing. My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to your loved ones.
Frances LaFontaine Belgarde
Nancy Field
May 2, 2006
For Ken
He left us at moonrise
I understand he said goodbye
I imagine with the same wondrous spirit he greeted us with each day
His beautiful black hair dancing in the breeze
Along with that bounce in his stride.
He left many gifts and memories for us all
A few of mine: 60 pages of dense notes from his NW Native Americans class.
He made the history come alive.
Listening to his many students sing his praises.
His inspiring remarks when we saved the SE corner of the campus
With the glacial boulder and the wren singing in the woods.
His convictions could take your breath away.
He would fight the good fight.
He also knew how to engender joy.
He would welcome you to tenure.
He would celebrate your getting a sabbatical
And celebrate your waiting for your sabbatical
And celebrate returning from your sabbatical
He joined you in that joy and renewal to carry on the work.
Maybe that’s one of the reasons we can’t imagine him gone.
Who will greet? Who will fight? Who will celebrate?
We couldn’t give him the renewal he needed now,
But let us carry that spirit of renewal with us, in his honor.
He left us at moonrise.
I understand he said goodbye
May his spirit be with us all.
With condolences to his family and friends,
Sam Capriatti
May 1, 2006
Ken was the first to hold a high standard for both my writing and content and made me a better student overall. He introduced a world beyond my familiar white-bread upbringing and his passion was contageous. I'd never witnessed a professor so passionately describe the injustice and racial strife America has seen. His sincerity made me, a white male, receptive to the concerns of traditionally underrepresented People. Ken was an approachable man and one whom I try to emulate in my classroom. I am so sorry he is no longer with us in person. I'll never forget him.
Misty Hammontree-Martin
May 1, 2006
Ken was a remarkable human being. A true warrior. He touched my life in such a positive way. The Native children of future generations will reap the benifits of kens' commitment to empowering Native students everwhere across the U.S and abroad.
I will miss ken, honor ken, and remember the great times we had kyaking. I truly am a better person because I knew this man. This humble, kind, and very funny man. Blessing to you all who loved and adored this man. And... Pass it on....
Robert Grant
April 30, 2006
I was a student in one of Professor La Fountaine's class in 2001. At the time, I was a returning student after serving in the Coast Guard - I was taking his Vietnam History Course and was taken by his indepth presentation and enthusiasm, which became a force in my studies and my life. I could see how busy he was so when I spoke with him during his office hours and I tried to be mindful of time. He quickly realized what I was doing and told me that an exchange of ideas through discussion would be the best foundation for my questions. His simple yet direct statement put me at immediately at ease. He made me both understand and realize that history, especially during the Vietnam war, had mini-histories that defined the decisions that were made. The result of our discussion gave me the direction to explore a part of this history and it provided me with the impetus to learn about the effect that "the few" have on the many. Ken, I will miss you, you have left your mark on me and I will share your passion throughout my life. Saying "thank you" is not enough...
Josephine Pino
April 30, 2006
I am so sorry to hear of Ken's passing. Although I did not know him well, he had an important impact on me as a young faculty member at Shoreline. He was truly a special person who was an important part of a community I grew to love. Ken represented so much of the spirit of what is good in education.....passion for teaching, collegiality, confidence, a tradition of respect, and a constant and intense striving to make the world a better place. Ken has left behind a tremedous legacy, through the impact he made on every person whose life he touched.
Danielle Frazel
April 30, 2006
Today I read on a friends myspace account that you had left this world. I was saddened to know that SCC had lost one of the best professors I ever had. The way that you excited students about what you taught was a wonderful addition to SCC. You will be missed very much. Thank you for everything you've done for us students.
To your family: My thoughts are with you during this tough time. Ken meant more to some of us students then you will know. His Vietnam class helped me understand my father, who is a vietnam veteran, more. I hadn't talked to him in 10 years but Ken's class made me realize what my father had gone through and I ended up getting in touch with him. If I hadn't taken Ken's class I might still be estranged from my father.
Eva Mozena Brandon
April 29, 2006
Ken,
Ever since I left Shoreline I'd been meaning to write you a letter thanking you for being so inspirational as a teacher and elder human; it's easy to see that you've opened so many eyes, minds, and hearts. I will always remember how much I learned in the short time that I knew you - I'm sure I speak for many students when I say that we can never thank you enough for these lessons. We will truly miss you.
Michael Little Crow
April 29, 2006
Ken, you always seemed larger than life to me, that is why I was always afraid to approach you at family gatherings. The many stories I heard about you from my mother and aunts always inspired me. Your spirit will continue to inspire the generation that follows you.
Bristol Clarkson
April 29, 2006
I was deeply saddened to hear of Ken's passing. He was truly the best professor I have had, and though I only had one class with him he greatly impacted my life. I majored in History and am pursuing a career in education laregly based on his influence. I've never met a more approachable professor and one that showed so much personal concern for his subject matter and his students. I wish that I had the chance to tell him how much he has affected my life. I am a better person for having known him.
Louise Lindenmeyer
April 29, 2006
The sense of loss is so large. I loved the way Ken lived. He loved life and taught us to love each other and work together to make things better. He passionately enbraced his ideals and gave us so much hope for the world. As SFT President he always looked out for us. What a gift we were given to have had Ken among us here at Shoreline for 34 of his years, and now forever. My favorite times were when he shared his excitement about his phenomenal sabattical for many years afterwards. He was so in love with life and you.
Katie Guiberson
April 29, 2006
Ken,
Your wisdom, kindness and sincerity amaze me. Thank you for always having time to chat with a lost student/friend. There just never seems to be enough time in this life... You are greatly missed.
Jennifer Bradshaw
April 29, 2006
Chico:That was the name I gave him when I was 3 maybe 4 years old.My Mother and Ken went to highschool together, and stayed in contact til she passed away. Ken was that guy that was always there for my family.I didnt get to see him very often(I live in oregon) but he is one of those people that is always in your thoughts.I didnt know him as a professor only as a friend and that friend will be greatly missed.All my thought and prayers go out to the family, THANK YOU KEN for always being there for the KRISTJANSON'S.
Catherine Leufkens
April 28, 2006
I learned this evening of your passing. I was shocked to hear this and sadden. SCC will never be the same without you. You will be dearly missed. prayers to your family.
Elena Bianco
April 28, 2006
Ken, I'm lucky to have been your colleague. I learned more from you the quarter we taught linked classes than I ever did in grad school. I'll miss your integrity, your firebrand editorials in the faculty newsletter, your smile and you saying, "Hey there, youngster" every time we met on campus. Godspeed to you...
John Backes
April 28, 2006
I knew Ken as truth seeker and information hound. That is why as a librarian, I saw him almost every day. He and I go back about 30 years, and in those years I had the privilege of getting to know him and his way of thinking.
Students flocked to his classes even though they knew he was demanding and a bit tough as a grader. His students truly earned their grades in his classes. The good part for them was that he was always there and present for them and with them in the library, the classroom, on fieldtrips and his office.
Because of his interest in training his students to rigorous research standards, and his very clear and direct assessment of the collections usefulness to his teaching, the Ray W. Howard Library Technology Center has a very deep and diverse collection of materials related to Native American history and culture for the use and enjoyment of all of our students and community. The well developed collections related to the Viet Nam War are also available to our students and community because of his diligence.
To Ken's family, I will miss Ken as a respected colleague, as someone who helped me change some of my own thinking on a broad range of subjects and as a friend who enjoyed a good laugh, had a passion for teaching and learning and never took his foot off the gas for very long when it came to having a good argument. He will live on in my person, in the library and the college.
John Backes
Interim VPAA
Shoreline Community College
Jane Winslow
April 28, 2006
What an honor to work with Ken -- a remakable educator and spirit. We who were touch by him were exceptionally lucky. His presence will live on. My thoughts and wishes to his circle of loved ones.
Bob Shields
April 28, 2006
Dear Ken,
You made the world a better place and me a better person. Thank you for all your kindness and help and time.
Donna Wilde
April 28, 2006
Ken,
It has been an honor to know you at Shoreline. Thanks for all your encouragement over the years and your ever-present caring for others.
Stephen Lennstrom
April 28, 2006
When I saw the memorial sign on Shoreline Community College campus today the first thing I thought was, "Ken...no, it must be some other LaFountaine". It seems impossible that someone so strong could pass away. I took a class from Ken last quarter and in a matter of weeks I could tell why he was so respected. The man was a giant, no one could be around him without feeling his shadow. I feel ultimately priveleged that I could have known someone so amazing, and I feel deeply moved that someone so amazing actually knew me.
DuValle Daniel
April 28, 2006
I worked with Ken for 10 years but never got to know him the way I wanted to know him. We planned so often to get together for coffee, just to talk. I planned every year to hear his Thanksgivings Day presentation, but never got around to it. What I do know is that he is a special person, and his voice, his smile, his strength, his kindness and especially his outspokenness will be missed at Shoreline CC. In one of our last communications, I told Ken that I'd pray for a miracle. He thanked me and said he would too. I did; he did. He's left his body, but his spirit will be with us always. Ken LaFountaine is a miracle. I am thankful to have known him. My heart goes out to his family.
Marty Olsen
April 28, 2006
High spirited, courageous humble and insistent on respect for everyone in his community. That is the way I remember Ken's presence over the thirty years we have been at Shoreline together . I have vivid memories of Ken expressing these values in so many places. From the most formal and public event to the most casual and private conversation, Ken remained true to himself and his values. He was a warm and wonderful person who enjoyed a good laugh and tried to have fun with whatever he did. In all of the years we were here together I don't ever remember Ken passing me without saying howdy, or hello there young man, or hey cowboy. I will miss his presence every day and especially when things are difficult. Thank you Ken for the many gifts you gave so generously
Lillie Plummer
April 28, 2006
Ken has been a mentor and a friend since I joined the staff at the college in 1983. I have always respected his presence, his intelligence, and the unending caring he had for all people. Although I am saddened, I rejoice at his passage to the next realm. I hope that you and Jamil have many invigorating discussions on the other side.
Ben Peterson
April 28, 2006
Ken,
I hope your not angry with me for not naming my first born after you :P. You could always brighten up even the worst day. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and humor with me. After having taken your NW Indian class I feel like now I actually know about the place I call home. May you continue to brighten lives with your legacy. I don't know that I have ever met a better man. Try not to slice too many tee shots up there!
Jeff Omalanz-Hood
April 28, 2006
Ken,
Though I never took a class from you, you taught me much. During my most formative years I watched you on the College Cabinet, heard you in campus meetings, and read your words in the Soundings. You presented a strong and attractive image of ethical integrity and devotion to justice. That you felt strongly what you spoke was obvious in your eyes and in your voice. I saw that you were as passionate about truth as you were about life—you even walked with passion. As a young man I admired that image (as I still do) and, like with so many others, it helped shape the person I was to become. Now, whenever I fear speaking out about an injustice, whenever expediency tries to trump ethics in my heart and my mind, your example is there, prominent among the righteous role models I have known, pressing me to stand up and speak out. I am not the only one. Thousands have been touched by your example, so that every time you raised your voice for justice and equity, it has—through example—echoed through a myriad other throats against countless other wrongs, and will continue to do so.
Christopher Taylor
April 28, 2006
Ken,
You left us so soon. Thank you for your passion and inspiration. Your ripples became waves.
Russell D. Rosco
April 28, 2006
Ken and Beth:
I will always remember Ken’s love for education, his own as well as for his students. I am sure that Ken will be remembered as a great man for all the lives he touched with his positive outlook and the respect he gave to those around him.
My condolences to Beth, who I have had the pleasure of being one of my students. I wish you strength and encouragement as you continue with your life.
Marge Higby
April 28, 2006
Dear Ken, It is hard to believe you have gone on ahead and won't be around for us to be warmed by your wonderful smile, enjoy your sense of humor or see you walking "running" down the hall long hair flowing. When you and I had our disagreement, over the war, I was relieved to find out we still remained good friends. You are such a warrior. What a legacy you have left behind! My heart, love and prayers go out to your wife and family. Someday we will see you again, but for now you have not only left a legacy but a huge void at SCC and in our hearts. You will be missed. Til then take care and God bless.
Liz De Roche
April 28, 2006
I was 40 years old when I returned to college at Shoreline. Ken gave me the strength to sit proud among the gleaming young 18 year olds knowing I would be the first in my family to graduate. He helped me get the money from BIA and others to afford to go to school while I raised my daughter. And through it all he made me laugh. He was truly a blessing to all whose lives he touched. I shall never forget him and his kindness.
Julianne Ketteridge
April 28, 2006
I am so grateful to have known Ken throughout most of my life. I think I was in 4th or 5th grade when I first met him, and he was a constant presence in our family's life since that time. It is because of him that I have my two younger brothers here today (Joseph and Kenneth). He inspired me and both my sisters and brothers in countless ways. Even when we were young children, he spoke to us as equals, posing and answering questions in his constant articulate manner. He was an educator inside and outside the classroom. Ken always gave of himself; his vast abundance of knoweldge, his encouragement, his humor, his loyalty, his kindness.
Although he is physically gone, his spirit will remain among us forever.
I am blessed to have been a part of this great man's life. Our family mourns a true friend.
Christopher Nappen
April 28, 2006
As Ken’s brother-in-law, I witnessed firsthand his unique combination of desire for learning, kindness and strength. Though I was never a student of his in the classroom, I learned much from him. Whether it was playing 18 holes of golf, celebrating Huskies' football wins (and more recently, bemoaning their losses), discussing the Vietnam War or hashing-out the political issues of the day, I always learned something new.
The greatest help Ken provided me was while I attended the University of Washington. During that period I worked full-time, attended school full-time and was typically hurried and harried. My visits to Ken's and Beth’s house always relaxed me and kept me focused. Few things sounded better than when Ken, acting as the consummate host, would yell-out to me with a beaming smile, "Hey there, young man, want a beer?"
Feeling overworked and under-rewarded, my answer always was, "Hell, yeah!"
Over the past nine months I learned of Ken’s inner-strength through how he battled the greatest challenge of his life. He displayed a dignity and grace that few possess.
What I learned first and foremost from Ken was to fully enjoy and make the most of each day.
Few people strive to make this world a better place. Ken was that rare individual.
Ken, thank you so much for your friendship. Remember, as you'd always say to me, "Stay out of trouble, young man!" =)
Beth and Ken
April 27, 2006
Meg Brown
April 27, 2006
Ken- I will miss you. Your energy, grace, dignity and presence were one of a kind...it was always a gift to spend what time I could with you at the SCCA. Love to Beth and family.
Paul Menish
April 27, 2006
We will love and miss Uncle Kenneth forever. What an amazing gift to have someone so special in our lives.
Love,
Paul, Angela, Casey, & Peyton
Britta Smith
April 27, 2006
I will always remember Ken LaFountaine as my Uncle Ken. Although we were not related by blood, he played a prominent role in my life that made him part of my family. Since I was little, Uncle Ken would take me to Husky football games, which are some of my best childhood memories. Without Uncle Ken my life would not have been as rich and fun.
Uncle Ken and other close family members would constantly reinforce the importance of higher education, specifically UW. One big reason I became a Husky in 2002 was because Uncle Ken helped purple and gold flow through my veins. Now I am graduating and unfortunately he will not get to see me walk across that stage, or see my diploma, but deep down that really does not matter. He already knew when I was a freshman that I was going to graduate, that’s just how he was. He will always be remembered because he touched so many people’s lives, just as he touched mine.
Bow Down To Washington!
Lael Echo-Hawk
April 27, 2006
Ken, to say you will be missed is such a giant understatement! You were such an amazing teacher, mentor and most of all, inspiration. Thank you for all you've done for my family, and the Native community. Blessings...
Annie King
April 27, 2006
Ken, you are such a kind spirit with a contagious enthusiasm for life. Thank you for all you taught me.
Annie
Sandy Tracy
April 27, 2006
I will aways remember Ken as a leading figure in my memories of the MPA Program at Evergreen. I am glad I had the opportunty to get to know him. My condolances to his friends and family.
Diana LaFontaine
April 27, 2006
Kenneth I will miss you, I have so many memories of when we were all younger and the last time our families were together, at the beach, you were at the family gatherings whenever I returned to Seattle. I will miss your smiling face, jokes, and talking to you. My love,thoughts and prayers are with our family, I wish I could be there Friday with everyone else.
Jane Sparks
April 27, 2006
Dearest Ken
I will miss you more than you know. I remember the first time I met you, you were giving an introduction at a convocation and someone was standing to your left and you said "I didn't think it was possible for anyone to be to the left of me" and I knew that I had to get to know you better! We took a sea kayaking class together and you teased me the whole time because I had to pee every 1/2 hour. You are bigger than life and will remain that way in my memory always. Your passing is a great loss to us all and you will be dearly missed always. Thank you for the time you spent with me.
Nancy E Phillips
April 27, 2006
I met Ken in 1969 when I was attending Edmonds Community College. He was my lab partner in biology and we exchanged rides occasionally. I had a HUGE crush on him - he was so funny and nice. I always though of him as "Mr. LaFountaine" as one of our instructors called everyone by their surnames and his sounded so beautiful. I thought of him several times over the years, wondering how he was. To show how small a world - I went to the wedding of a coworker and saw Ken's name in the guestbook - turns out he was a relative! I was just thinking of "Mr. LaFountaine" the other day, then was hit by seeing the obit in the paper. I am so very sorry - I can see by his brief bio he was a truly special person. I wish I could have known him better. My deepest condolences to all of his family and friends.
Phillip Hamilton
April 27, 2006
I miss you, Ken.
Brian Baanrud
April 27, 2006
Uncle Kenneth:
You are my "Hero",I have alway's admirded you,You always made us kid's feel special & loved.
You'll always be in my hart!
Love & Miss you
Scott Miller
April 27, 2006
Ken was my first teacher at SCC in the early 1980's. He helped guide me into a career in education. I have been a public school teacher for more than 20 years now. Thank you Ken and my students thank you. You will continue to touch students long after you have gone.
Irene LaFontaine-Bear Runner
April 27, 2006
My condolences go out to Ken's family. My prayers will be with you during this time of sorrow.
Mike & Betsy Tulee
April 27, 2006
Ken was very high spirited, energetic, articulate and a great friend to all who knew him. We are honored to have known Ken. Those Husky home football games are not going to be the same without Ken in the stands!
Victoria Sprang
April 26, 2006
Ken gave a helping hand to my life for almost 20 years and I only now truly realize how important that hand of friendship has been to me. I miss him. I will always miss him. My life is forever changed because of him. He made a difference in many lives and I am proud and humbled to have been a part of that. I am sad without my friend but eternally grateful for the time I did have with him. My heart will always have a place for Ken, his wife Beth and their loving families. My warmest wishes to all of them.
Heidi Wiltse
April 26, 2006
Of all of the professors that I had through my college years, Ken was my favorite - he was smart, he was funny - he made you want to learn! He will truly be missed by all who met him.
Evelyn & karl &Family kraft
April 26, 2006
Ken was truly a leader and a great man. My family was blessed to know him. We will miss him.
Mona & Big Sky Bill Halcomb
April 26, 2006
Ken:
We were in the presence of greatness, some may not have known that, but we did. We’ve heard of people saying “I remember where I was the day Kennedy got shot”, while we remember where we were the day we both met you.
You always championed causes for Indian people. Just to name a few, the mascot issue, the Makah’s right to honor their treaty by their Whale hunt, and especially access to education. You kept the doors open, you kept instructor’s feet to the highest standard, and you made the world a better place.
We will always love you. We will always advocate for and encourage students to pursue education. We will always be there for Beth, Pete, Allan, Ramona, Kathleen, and your whole family. We are honored to have been called your friends.
As always,
Mona & Big Sky Bill
Todd (Thomas) Hamilton III
April 26, 2006
Ken; thank you.
David Campbell
April 26, 2006
I truly wish that I could have met Ken. We were probably related through the tribe. After hearing about his life it would seem that the world is poorer today upon his passing but richer because of his life.
Carol Seslar-Woods
April 26, 2006
The world is a better place having had you in it and I'm a better person having known you. If love was a cure you would have lived forever.
You are and will always be loved!
your friend, Carol
Joe Renouard
April 26, 2006
It was with great sadness that I heard of Ken's illness and passing.
I first met Ken in 1996 when I taught for a youth program. Ken took interest in my efforts with Native American students and helped me adopt effective teaching strategies that helped me become a better teacher.
Ken was always gracious with his time and would literally give you the shirt off his back. We became beginning golfers together, and I was impressed with his boundless humor and incredible patience.
A principled man with a superb intellect and a driving force for social justice, Ken was a clear and strong voice at Shoreline, a voice that now is only left in memory. Hopefully, his former students and colleagues will carry on his spirit in their work.
I'm a better person for having known him.
Tim and Val Davies
April 26, 2006
You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Kenneth was an amazing man and will be missed greatly. With Love and Deepest Sympathy,
Tony Costa
April 26, 2006
I will never be able to find the words to express my deepest respect for Ken and all he accomplished in his short time with all of us. I know that his Beth is lost without him but I also know that now he no longer suffers the pain of cancer that took him from us. I will miss his golf stories, mostly of his good shots and his explanations of what was wrong with his swing and how he was going to fix the problem. Our loss is heavens gain.
Betty Peterson
April 26, 2006
I am extremely saddened by Ken's passing. I enjoyed several Tribal MPA weekends in he presence. I often think of Ken when I am meeting new people or doing an introduction, because Ken always introduced himself not a Ken but as the person of his ancestry. I will never forget Ken's wonderful joyous smile that started many of my days at Evergreen.
Donna Myers
April 26, 2006
Ken was one of the few people I've known who made the world a better place to be by just being in his presence. He exuded kindness and love and always made those around him feel that whatever it was they had to say, it was important that it be heard. Even though I didn't have the chance to get to know him well, his death has touched me deeply and I will miss him.
Tom & Kathi Hamilton
April 26, 2006
Thanks for your friendship with our son, and yours and his incredible bicycle trip around Europe. We'll miss your free spirit but know that you will be bringing companionship to a whole new set of people.
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Estate Settlement Guide
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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.
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The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
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Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
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