Kenneth Robert Vogt, age 84, of
Albion, Michigan, passed away at home on Dec. 7, 2025, after several years of declining health.
Ken was born on Oct. 26, 1941, in
Jackson, Michigan, the son of Kenneth W. and Ida Mae (Gillett) Vogt who have preceded him in death. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by an infant sister.
Ken graduated from Springport High School in 1960 and attended the Agricultural Short Course at Michigan State University. On Sept. 8, 1962, Ken married Peggy Sawchuk. Together they farmed and raised their two sons, Dennis and Christopher, on the family farm that Ken resided on his entire life. He was a proud father, and as their family grew to include Dennis' girlfriend, Shelly Root, and Christopher's wife, Sarah, he was an even prouder grandfather to his grandson, Shawn. Ken could be found in the stands supporting Shawn in football and basketball.
Ken worked at Albion Elevator Company for 10 years, then managed the grain elevator in Homer for 3 years before transferring to The Andersons in Albion for 12 years until his retirement. In addition, he helped on the family dairy farm and planted corn, hay, wheat and soybeans. After his father's retirement, he took over the farm duties full-time. In his free time, Ken enjoyed playing Euchre in Springport for many years and Bingo in Albion. He was a member of bowling leagues in Jackson and Albion for a few years. His favorite pastime was cruising around the neighborhood on his Kubota.
Ken devoted his life to his family, farm, and community. He served approximately 40 years as a trustee on the Sheridan Township Board and during part of that time, served as a member and president of the Fire Board. He was also a member of the Michigan Guernsey Breeder's Association and over the years held every office on the Board of Directors. In his early years he was a member of the Westside Hi-Steppers 4-H Club and received many honors as he showed dairy cattle at the Jackson County Fair, Michigan State Fair in Detroit, and National Dairy Show in Waterloo, Iowa. He continued his interest in 4-H as an adult and was an administrative leader and leader of the dairy and gun safety projects. Ken was a recipient of the Farmer of the Year Award presented by the Albion Jaycees.
A memorial gathering honoring Ken's life will be held from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025, at Vickers Springport Funeral Home located at 121 Pearl St., in Springport, Michigan. Following the gathering, a time for sharing love, laughter, and tears will be provided during a luncheon at Sheridan Township Hall located at 13355 29 Mile Road in
Albion, Michigan.
Memorial contributions can be sent to the Sheridan Township Firefighters Association, 13355 29 Mile Road, Albion MI 49224 or the Westside Hi-Steppers 4-H Club, c/o Kate Mauntel, 18611 28 Mile Road, Albion MI 49224.
Arrangements entrusted to Vickers Springport Funeral Home, PO Box 235,
Springport, MI 49284. 517-857-4848.
Published by Albion Recorder & Calhoun/Jackson Morning Star from Dec. 12 to Dec. 13, 2025.