Kenneth Ray Kress

Kenneth Ray Kress

                                 February 4th, 1928 - November 6th, 2024

                                                       PSALM 23

Kenneth R. Kress (Ken) peacefully passed away on November 6, 2024, at the Elyria Village Nursing Home, leaving behind a legacy of love after a remarkable life spanning 96 years. Beloved by all who crossed his path, Ken has now found eternal rest in heaven, reunited with his cherished wife, Kitty, his parents, and his sons, Paul and Daniel.

Born on February 4, 1928, in Amherst. Ken was the son of Lester Phillip Kress and Ida Kress (née Hohendorf). His educational journey led him through Lorain High School and on to Indiana University in Bloomington, where he proudly served as the president of his class, graduating with honors.

In June 1959, fate brought Ken together with his soulmate, Kitty. Their love story began with a memorable first date on June 11, 1959, and culminated in their wedding a year later on the same day, June 11, 1960, at St. John's United Church of Christ in Lorain. Kitty loved to reminisce about Ken being featured as one of Lorain’s Top 10 Most Eligible Bachelors the year they met—a delightful coincidence, as she herself graced the newspaper as a model for double ovens.

 Ken served his country with honor as a veteran of the Korean War. Drafted at a young age, he enlisted on June 21, 1945, and returned home on February 12, 1947, adorned with the Victory Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal for Japan. Ken dedicated his service to the United States Army as a Phototopographer and was honorably discharged at Fort Sheridan in Illinois on March 30, 1947. Upon his return to Lorain, Ken made a lasting impact in Human Resources at the Lorain Steel Mill, where he warmly welcomed and recruited Puerto Rican families, helping many find meaningful work and a brighter future.

Continuing his family’s legacy, Ken took over Kress Electric, a business founded by his father. Ken owned Kress Electric until he retired at 72 years old.  He managed it with integrity and compassion, treating his employees with the kindness he often reserved for family. His son Paul played a key role in expanding the business, a testament to the strong familial bonds they shared.  Paul continued the family business and was a local IBEW member.

 Ken and Kitty celebrated an extraordinary life together for over 65 years, now reunited in heaven. They treasured the moments spent with family, whether gathered for holidays or simply to enjoy each other's company. As devoted parents to Paul, Carrie, Danny, and Kate, and as loving grandparents and great-grandparents, Ken was the “rock” of the Kress family. Renowned for his quick wit, infectious smile, and remarkable culinary skills, he brought joy to all around him. He often fondly joked about wishing all of his grandchildren could live with him so he could be part of their lives every day. Ken cherished the time spent fishing with Paul and the grandkids, exemplifying his deep love for family. Every spring, Ken planted beautiful gardens for he and Kitty to enjoy.

 Together, Ken and Kitty enjoyed an array of activities, including dancing and singing in church choirs at St. John's UCC in Lorain and the First Church in Oberlin UCC. They were also devoted members of Avon Lake UCC. Their shared passion for culture led them to countless performances by The Cleveland Ballet, The Cleveland Orchestra, the Lake Erie Opera House, and the Cleveland Playhouse, where they held memberships for many years. As a wedding gift, Ken blessed Kitty with a cottage at Linwood in Vermillion, creating a sanctuary filled with summer memories shared with family and friends, surrounded by the beauty of Lake Erie.

 Ken was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Kathryn L. Kress, in December 2022, beloved sons, Paul C. Kress, in September 2024 and Daniel C. Kress, in September 1983 and his brother Robert L. Kress in 2004.

He is survived by his two daughters, Kathryn E. McNeil (Kress) of Avon Lake, and Carrie A. Senko (Kress) of Everett, WA. He also leaves behind his daughter-in-law, Amy S. Kress of Avon Lake, seven grandchildren; Felicia, Jonathan, Halle, Victor, Kersten, Kayla, and Kyle; six great-grandchildren; Jordan, Liana, Valentina, Stella, Zayn, and Zach; along with nieces Lori Husar (Norcross) and Tammy Haslage (Norcross) from Lorain, and many extended family members who hold his memory dear.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate team at Hospice of Western Reserve, especially to Dad’s favorite, Lisa. A special thank you goes to Kelly from the Elyria Village Dietary Department for her loving care and the nourishing meals she prepared for Dad every day. Our deepest thanks extend to the Elyria Village nurses who treated Dad with such warmth and kindness, as well as to Pastor Kurt at Elyria Village for his comforting prayers, and Pastor Kelly Brill at Avon Lake UCC.

A private family burial will take place at Ridge Hill Memorial Cemetery in Lorain.

An Announcement will be released by Schwartz, Spence, Boyer & Cool Funeral Home in Lorain, all are encouraged to subscribe to their obituary notice page at www.boyercool.com.

The family suggests that memorial contributions may be made to the Avon Lake UCC, 32801 Electric Blvd., Avon Lake, Ohio 44012.

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