Kenneth Glen Walsh

In 1948 Ken's parents, Fray and Fern Walsh, moved the family to Susanville, CA. where he thrived during his school years, graduating from Lassen High School in 1959.

Ken's 44-year career with Meek's Lumber began with his move to Chico, CA in 1962. His drive and hard work promoted him quickly within the company. When offered the branch manager position of the Carson City yard, he moved to Nevada where he sucessfully remained until his next promotion in 1982, a direct result of his continued work ethic and dedication. With this promotion came a move to Sacramento and a new title, General Manager over the Western Division, the highest non-family position held to date in the company's 101 year history, and one he successfully held until his retirement in 2007.

Family was paramount to Ken. He deeply loved his four children, Steve Walsh, Frank Walsh, DeAnna Walsh-Guthrie and Mike Walsh. He was proud to be their Father, never missing a chance to brag upon them. He worked long hours, often coming home for dinner and a quick visit before heading back to the office. Knowing his schedule could cut into family time, he was valiant in his efforts to make the time spent with them special.

Each summer he'd load up the family in the motorhome, driving thousands of miles across the United States, visiting museums, national monuments and State parks, giving his children the opportunity to experience history, rather than just read about it. As a result of his hard work, he was able to take his children on trips abroad, wanting them to experience and appreciate other cultures. Building forts in the backyard for sleepovers, master-minding neighborhood water fights, keeping the hedges trimmed around the light pole in their front yard, knowing a clear path to home base was key during a game of hide-and-seek and the infamous building of the 12 ft tall kite made the Walsh house, the house to be at.

He praised his children when warranted, and gave life lessons when needed. He instilled the importance of family and tradition. Taught them to hold fast to their convictions, but not be afraid of new ideas. He reminded them to work hard, fight for what was theirs, while remembering to be kind and help when they could. He gave his children wings to fly and the roots to stay grounded. He used his words to tell them they were loved, appreciated and respected, and made them feel it by his actions.

In addition to his children Ken has nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom loved their "Papa Ken" and whom he equally loved. Spending time with them was something he counted amongst his favorite.

Ken was a loving son, a good neighbor, a great friend and the best Dad. He was quick to lend a hand and generous with his possessions. He was adventurous, quick-witted and highly intelligent. There was nothing he couldn't do. Welding and woodwork, both skills he used while building several of his homes. He was a true craftsman, a perfectionist. He was artistic and creative, tackling his projects with creativity and zeal. Though he had many interests and hobbies, his true love was building and refurbishing street rods and muscle cars and where his natural ability shined. Gifted when it came to bodywork, design and painting, he was able to look past the pile of rust, the end results breathtaking. A car wasn't finished until it was as fast as it was pretty, "gotta scratch in every gear", he'd say, and every once in a while you'd find skid marks running the length of his street, proving it did. He loved spending time on his cars and enjoyed the fruits of his labor taking several road trips with a local car club.

In addition to his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren,Ken is survived by many extended family members, including a favorite cousin, Jackie Kelley, who blessed him this past Summer with an extended visit, and Katrina Gardner, his significant other with whom he experienced true love. She filled his days with adventure, and laughter, and will forever be considered a part of the family.

Ken's passing leaves a void to those who knew him, and heartbreak to those who loved him. He was a gift, and is so truly missed

Family and friends are invited to attend Ken's Celebration Of Life which will be held on Friday, February 28th, 2020 at 2 p.m. at Fitzhenry's Funeral home, 3945 Fairfiew Drive, Carson City, NV. A reception will follow, the location to be announced at the conclusion of the celebration service.