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Kenneth Townsend Obituary

Ken Townsend, age 85, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 31, 2023, with his family by his side. On his final day, he was with his family, who he adored more than anything else in the world.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years Dianne, devoted daughter Tracy Townsend, loving daughter Laura Townsend Rhodes, son-in-law Kenneth Rhodes, and his cherished granddaughter and very own ray of sunshine, Sally. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law Robert and Patricia Townsend and sisters-in-law Maureen Mitchell and Bonnie Sutton. He was predeceased by his parents Cecil and Violette Townsend and granddaughter True Townsend Rhodes.

Born and raised in Watseka, Illinois, Ken graduated WCHS class of 1956. He graduated from Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois.

Ken spent 26 years in the U.S. Army Field Artillery, serving two tours in Vietnam. He loved the U.S. Army and the people who serve.

After retiring, Ken and his family lived in Fairfax, VA.

Ken's family will be receiving friends at a visitation Friday, April 14, 2023, from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA. Military internment and services at Arlington National Cemetery will be held at a later date.

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

Published by Times Republic from Apr. 12 to Apr. 13, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth Townsend

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Not sure what to say?





Darlene and Paul

April 3, 2024

We sure do miss our neighbor Mr. Ken! He always had a wave and a smile
Paul and Darlene

Sally Rhodes

March 26, 2024

I loved having you as a grandpa. You were the best one. I´ll miss you. Enjoy heaven.
-Sally, your granddaughter.

Neil Proudman

June 1, 2023

I never had the pleasure of meeting Colonel Townsend, but I did get to hear all about him from Tracy who I have worked alongside for many years. Thank you for your service, Sir - may you rest peacefully and thank you for raising an amazing daughter and the contribution she makes to our nations energy industry.

Mike O' Neal

April 15, 2023

Kenny was a firebrand football player and was the most knowledgeable about the rules. He was an obvious man of consequence in latter life. Mike O'Neal, WCHS class of 1957

Group of 10 Memorial Trees

Mike and Luanne Gutermuth

Planted Trees

Gary and Marla Gash

April 10, 2023

Dianne, Laura and Tracy we are so sorry for your loss. Our deepest sympathy and condolences to all of Ken´s family. He was a great man and person may he Rest In Peace.

Kay Hart

April 10, 2023

Dear longtime Fairfax friend, Dianne and family are carried in my prayers as they mourn Husband and Father, Ken. Friends also know Ken in his lifelong devotion and service to the US Army. May Ken Rest in Peace. And may special memories of their family life bring them Peace.

Comfort Planter

Scott and Nancy Kranstuber

Sent Flowers

Darlene,Paul,( Angel NIK),and Dom

April 9, 2023

The best neighbors ever became family. How fortunate we are to live beside them for 28 years. Our children adore Midder Ken and Miss Diney, as do we. Love to Diney, Tracy and Laura
The Martins

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Memorial Events
for Kenneth Townsend

Apr

14

Visitation

5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home

9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA 22032

Funeral services provided by:

Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home

9902 Braddock Road, Fairfax, VA 22032

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