He was born on Dec. 31, 1941, in Saginaw to Clifford and Marie (Hollenbeck) Kobel. The family moved to Gladwin and then Midland, where he graduated from Midland High School in 1961. In 1973, Ken moved to the Alden area, where he had owned and operated Alden Grocery and Kobel Foods in Rapid City for several years.

Ken retired from MidlandÕs 1460th Transportation Company of the Michigan National Guard in 2001. Ken always kept himself well versed on politics and the history of our country. He served proudly in Desert Storm in 1990, and continued to support the United States military actions. After retirement, he returned to Alden, where he and Sharon built their dream home near his daughter and grandchildren.

He always took great pride and interest in his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, brother and sister, taking part in many family events and attending sports programs. He was a deer hunter,Êbut mostly just enjoyed being with his family and fellow National Guardsman.

Ken is survived by his wife, Sharon (Timmons-Dankers); his son, Todd Kobel of Clinton Township; his daughter, Kelly (Rob) Bailey of Bellaire; three grandchildren, Christopher, Drew and Morgan; three stepchildren and three stepgrandchildren; his brother, Keith (Sally) Kobel of Midland; his sister, Kathleen (Bob) Mosher of Traverse City; the mother of his children, Connie Kobel; two nephews, Dough Kobel and Scott Mosher; two nieces, Debbie (Kobel) Sian and Kendra (Mosher) Brooks; one uncle, Earl (Phyllis) Kobel; and on aunt, Elfreda (Kobel) Holmes. He kept in contact with his many cousins, military friends and those from the various areas he had lived. He never forgot anyone. He was predeceased by his parents; and a nephew, David Kobel.

Cremation has taken place. A burial service will be held April 20 at 1 p.m. at the Fort Custer National Cemetery in Augusta. No other services are planned at this time.

Memorials may be made in KenÕs name to the American Cancer Society or Hospice.