Kenneth E. Weddle

Kenneth E. Weddle, 81, of Polson, passed away peacefully, with his two daughters by his side, on Tuesday, Oct. 15, at St. Luke’s Extended Care Facility in Ronan.

He was born April 28, 1932 in Wichita, Kansas, to Leo and Alice Weddle.  He graduated from Valley Center High School in 1950.  Two years later, he was drafted into the Army and served in Korea until 1954.

Upon returning from the army he moved to Denver, Colo., and worked at Martin Marietta as a technician on the Titan Missiles. This is where he met the love of his life, Janet Lemke.  They were married on April 8, 1961, and lived in Littleton, Colo.  Following Martin Marietta, Ken owned a Slot Car Race Track store for a few years. He then began his career as a carpenter and built many homes in the Columbine area.  After Janet passed away in 1986, he moved to Walden, Colo., and worked on a ranch for a many years.  He later moved to Polson in 1992, to enjoy his passion for fishing.

During his younger years, Ken enjoyed hunting and fishing in the Colorado back country, especially around Steamboat. In his later years, he spent most of his time fishing on Flathead Lake. He enjoyed spending time with his friends and family, and the daily ritual of drinking coffee with the guys.

Ken, also known as ‘Poppa’ by his five grandchildren, will be remembered for always having a smile on his face, and his ability to make friends wherever he went.

He is survived by two daughters and their families, Sue (John) Harlan of Polson, Linda (James) Allen of Auburn, Wash., and grandchildren Quinn, Quaid, Ivy, Qia and Trevor; one brother Max (Barbara) Weddle, Wichita, Kan.; one nephew and two nieces.

No services are planned at this time.  A private family service will be held next summer in Valley Center, Kan. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at www.groganfuneralhome.com.