KEN, a Force of Nature         

Ken was a man of strong character.
He will be blessed in the hereafter.
His soul mate and love, Christine had each other which they leaned
Upon as their sunset years manifested.

Ken shared his love, kindness and strength with all.
His family, Christine’s family, friends and creatures big and small.
KC , his last beloved dog who he shared with his dear heart,
Christine was devoted to him.

So many of us would go out on a limb
To secure his favor.
We were blessed with his many talents.
Ken could fix all with limited labor.

I know we will share the joy of him when we reach heaven.
In the meantime, memories will be our safe haven.


Connie Ank       Sept. 2014

We were so saddened to hear of Ken's passing.  Dad (Norvin and older brother) had wonderful stories about growing up in Whittemore, Iowa. The adventure of Ken's move to California to work during WWII. He recalled that  Ken's version of the trip included a bag of "sandwiches" and a "OK if there is no work here --let's go to California!" rally. 

Norv and Ken would talk every week for the past many years.  The conversation usually centered on "What is the weather like in North Dakota?" and then an exclamation from Ken about the wonderful weather in CA.

The trip to California several years ago by Uncle and younger brother Dean, his wife Nita and Norv and wife Josephine is recalled regularly - - always with a smile and the description of what a wonderful trip it was to see Ken and Christine.  Dean was driving a Lincoln (named Abe - must be a Whittemore thing)  and they had a great road trip.  A more recent trip facilitated by Norv's #2 son Dave is also described in great detail.  The tour of the Midway and Mom (Josephine) going up and down the ladders when she was pushing niner-zero is of course embellished with typical Elbert story-telling skills, smiles, and 'remember whens.'

In more recent years - Dennis who is writing this on Norv's behalf would get to see Ken and Christine during business trips to CA. Breakfast  or dinner with Ken and sometimes Christine always included a detailed update on the North Dakota and Iowa Elbert clan members.  

Ken's enthusiasm and exuberance for life was catching.  We all wish that the miles were not so distant that we did not get to spend time with Ken, Stephen and Michael during our growing up years.  However, during Ken's illness, it was my good fortune to get to know Stephen through phone calls, emails and text messages. In his own unique way -- Uncle Ken who always greeted me with a "Hey Guy..." brought the family closer together.  We look forward to reconnecting in the years ahead.

Keep his sprit in your minds and hearts.  Know that he is in our thoughts and prayers. "Hey Guy - Uncle Ken" you are truly missed.

I had the pleasure of knowing Ken for close to 30 years since I moved to San Diego in 1985. Christine is like a 2nd mother to me as I have known her since  my childhood on Cape Cod. Ken became like a 2nd father to me and was a special part of my life all these years. I've seen him in the good times and the bad, but Ken always had a smile even when he was going through tough times. He was a fighter. He loved everyone he met and everyone loved him. He will be greatly missed! I will always remember him calling my "Rudabager" with a big smile.....Ruth Nissley 

Ken always liked to be doing things!  In these six months or so, whenever he was with Mike and I, he wanted to help us in any way he could. Trimming plants, re-potting, supervising the planting of zucchini, shucking corn for a BBQ.  Of course he wanted to do more than his body would allow him to, at this point in his life. 

In his final month he was planning a secret get-a-way with his honey to take a train to Boston to visit her sisters there.  He always held out hope of   "getting better", so he could drive down to San Diego, to his home of 72 years and to be with his beloved Christine.  

Pops loved Bingo, Baseball,  and Breakfast!  

Mike and I feel as though it it was part of God's plan for him to be with us, to have our special outings, going to church, field trips to museums, harbor,  local and Ventura County landmarks. While here, he missed San Dielgo. He made daily phone calls to Christine (honey), Stephen (eldest son), and Norv (older brother).  He even WANTED a "Smart phone" to be up to date with everyone. We found an "easy"  smart phone that he was slowly learning to use.

It was for me an honor and privilege to have had Ken as my father-in-law these past thirty years...grandfather to our children, recently a great-grandfather. He was always a hard worker, loved the simple things in life, was overall a very friendly, likable guy!

He is already and will continue to be sorely missed. Pops, We Love You !!!