Kenneth H. Whitmer

Kenneth H. Whitmer, 84, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, after a short but brave fight with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love, integrity and quiet strength. Those who new Ken—Kenny to his family and close friends—will remember not only his sharp mind for business but also his gentle humor, his loyalty to family and friends, and his deep appreciation for life’s simple joys, like keeping his home, yard and vehicles in pristine condition.

Born and raised in Glendive, Montana, Ken spent many summers working on the family farm outside of Bloomfield, where a strong work ethic was instilled in him. In high school, Ken played all the sports, but excelled in boxing, winning a Golden Gloves trophy in his senior year. Along with 10 or 11 of his good buddies, Ken joined and left for the army the day after graduating high school. After his stint in the army, Ken came back and married the love of his life, Karen (Gustafson). Soon thereafter, Ken and Karen’s son Kent was born and the family moved to Denver.

Ken built his life in the Denver area, where he owned and managed several optical stores over the years. He took great pride in his work—not just because it was his livelihood, but because it allowed him to help people see the world more clearly. He especially took pride in helping create artificial eyes for people who had lost their eye, in particular veterans from the Viet Nam War. Ken treated his customers with the same honesty and care he showed his friends, earning their trust and respect in return. Many would stop by just to visit, long after they no longer needed new glasses.

At home, Ken shared a loving marriage with his wife, Karen, his partner in every sense of the word. Together they built a life filled with laughter, love, and quiet understanding. He was the proud father to his son, Kent, and daughter-in-law, Tina, and devoted brother to Lorraine. Family meant everything to Ken, and his happiest days were those spent outdoors with Kent on his son’s ranch—whether they were working side by side, sharing stories, teasing each other or simply enjoying the stillness of the land.

Ken also had a lifelong love of hunting, which he instilled and shared with Kent. For Ken, it wasn’t just about the hunt itself, but about the connection—to the land, to the people he shared it with, and to the rhythm of the seasons. Those moments of reflection and camaraderie were among his most treasured.

Those who spent time with Ken knew his calm presence and kind spirit. He was thoughtful rather than talkative, observant rather than hurried, and had a gift for making people feel at ease. He found joy in good conversation, a well-timed joke, and the satisfaction of working hard and doing a job right.

Ken’s life was one of quiet accomplishment and enduring love. He will be deeply missed, but his presence will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on December 3, 2025, at Horan & McConaty Family Chapel,  3101 S. Wadsworth Blvd., Lakewood, Colorado, 80227. Burial will follow at 2pm, Fort Logan National Cemetery.