Kenneth Carl Nordberg, 79

Kenneth Carl Nordberg, age 79, passed away peacefully Jan. 30, 2024, at his beloved Flathead Lake home on Finley Point in Polson, a house he designed and meticulously built. Ken's journey was marked by adventure, laughter, and a profound love for life itself.

Ken was born in Missoula on July 23, 1944. He graduated from Missoula County High School in 1962, where he competed on the Sentinel Spartan Ski Team with a group of close friends (later naming themselves The Fools). He broke his leg in three places while competing in a ski obstacle course when he decided to go over an obstacle that was meant to go under – he was a daredevil! 

After graduating high school, life led him to join the Army National Guard in the buddy program with a few of his close friends (The Fools), embodying the camaraderie and spirit of adventure that defined his character.

Ken later pursued his passion for architecture at MSU, eventually establishing himself as a successful entrepreneur, architect, master builder, and business owner with his wife of 50 years, Helga (Kolloch) Nordberg. Ken’s hard work and dedication afforded them the opportunity to retire early, splitting time between their Flathead Lake and Arizona homes, allowing them to enjoy many activities including their shared love for golf and his love for boating, skiing, and classic cars. 

Ken remained committed to downhill skiing for as long as he could. In a recent conversation with his daughter, Shelly, he expressed his desire to dust off his skis and hit the slopes again alongside his son Brad and his grandsons.

Ken embodied the heart of any gathering, filling it with his lively spirit as a teaser, jokester, and someone who found joy in laughing at himself, creating laughter for everyone. Anyone fortunate enough to spend time with Ken and Helga always knew that a good time was inevitable. He was a collector of many things, including humorous and perhaps not-so-appropriate novelties, Ken was truly one of a kind – a person who added a touch of humor to every experience, he was a real “kick in the butt”!!

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Carl F. and Margaret I. (Saulter) Nordberg and his brother Jack D. Nordberg. Ken will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him, but most profoundly by his devoted wife, Helga (Kolloch) Nordberg, and his four children: Shelly (Jeff) Roberts, Brad (Missi) Nordberg, Suzy (Jeff) Ouellette, and Randy (Desiree) Cogdill. Additionally, he leaves behind eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren who were cherished by their "Papa Ken. 

Ken's vibrant spirit will forever remain the life of the party, and his cherished stories will continue to resonate through those who held him dear.

There will be a private celebration of life at a later date. Messages of condolences may be shared with the family online at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.