Travis Michael KITCHEN

Travis Michael Kitchen, a man whose impact resonates far and wide, died on December 4, 2023. Travis was a beacon of kindness and a generous spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him. Travis was a deeply loved father, son, grandson, nephew, uncle, cousin, friend, and colleague. He will be remembered for his booming laugh and generosity of spirit. Travis was easy to love.

Born on February 2, 1975, in Spokane, Washington, Travis was the first child of Suzanne Kitchen and first grandchild of Ted and Sandy Kitchen. He brought so much love and light to the family. He graduated from Mead High School in 1993. His journey through life was marked by unwavering kindness, a steadfast loyalty to his loved ones, and an innate protective nature that defined him from an early age. His radiant spirit and genuine enthusiasm made him a cherished presence in the lives of those he touched. Travis became a caring and dependable older brother to his sisters, Aimee and Cassie. Fiercely protective, he was a source of support and love throughout their lives, embodying the qualities of a true guardian and confidant.

In August 2002, Travis married Renee Klei, and soon after his most cherished role emerged – that of a devoted father. The arrival of Josie, Theo, Lee, Max, and Grant, completed Travis as a person. Travis embraced fatherhood with unparalleled passion. A steadfast provider, protector, and unwavering supporter, he parented with an unmatched capacity for love, acceptance, and individualized care for each of his children. His kids were the center of his life and the source of so much pride and happiness. His influence as a parent was profound, setting a standard of presence, love, and acceptance that will resonate for generations.

Travis's commitment to family extended beyond his immediate circle, touching the lives of Kennewick's youth as he coached many basketball, baseball, and soccer teams; he mentored countless kids.

He worked for 16 years at Frito Lay, becoming a district sales leader for the last 4 ½ of those years, and was a dedicated and valued employee, coworker, and supervisor. During his employment at Frito Lay he earned many distinguished awards such as MVP, Leadership, Best Performer, and others.

Travis is preceded in death by his Grandpa Ted Kitchen and Grandma Sandy Kitchen, who would have been so proud of his life. He is survived by his children, Josie, Theo, Lee, Max, and Grant; their mother, Renee Klei; his grandson Myssial, discovering a whole new kind of love in being a first time grandpa. He is also survived by his mother Suzie; his aunts Becky (Chris) Weeks and Tracy Kitchen; his sisters Aimee Rousey and Cassie (Bryan) Murrell; nephews Coleton and Connor Wing, Rylan Kitchen, Daegen and Owen Murrell; and nieces Kylee Wing and Olivia Murrell; and many grand-nieces and nephews and cousins.

Travis Michael Kitchen will be remembered not only for the love he shared but for the enduring legacy of kindness, generosity, and familial devotion that he leaves behind. May his spirit live on in the hearts of those who were touched by his presence, and may we carry forward his legacy by living life loudly, proudly, and with kindness, just as he did.

Travis was honored in a memorial in Kennewick, Washington, on December 17, 2023, and will be laid to rest at Peone Cemetery, beside his grandparents Ted and Sandy Kitchen.