Ken E. Olds

Ken Olds, 70, of Clearwater, was born in Michigan on April 20, 1948 and went to Heaven on April 6 surrounded by his loving and devoted family. Despite a debilitating lung disease, Ken never gave up and fought til his last breath with dignity. Ken lived most of his life in Florida in St. Pete, Homosassa and Clearwater. Ken is survived by the love of his life, Susan (Lutz) and 6 children, Michelle Melone(Chris), Ron Roessler(Dawn), Lisa Danford, Tanya Burbee(Dan), Adam Roessler and Kenny Olds(Brandi), 17 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters, Teresa Olds and Shirley Duvall.

Ken graduated from Northeast High School and joined the Army soon after. He loved his military service and would have made a career of it but his health issues got in the way. He went on to become a union VP, ran a business and managed a camp in Homosassa where he found his love for fishing and boating. He taught Susan, kids and grandkids to fish but no one could match his talent. His favorite role was as stay-at-home Dad and he ran the household with an iron hand and kid gloves—and he was the best cook! Ken loved to travel and he visited all 50 States, all Caribbean Islands, much of Europe and Canada, his favorite trip being the 25th anniversary transatlantic cruise he planned where he and Susan renewed their wedding vows.

Visitation will be at Sylvan Abbey on April 19, 5-8pm with prayer service at 6:30pm. A funeral mass will be celebrated at Light of Christ Catholic Church on April 20, Ken’s 70th birthday, at 10:30am with a reception to follow in the church hall. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American Lung Assn., 100 South Ashley Dr., Ste 275, Tampa, Fl 33602.