Kenneth Lee Steenhoek

“A good father is one of the most unsung, unpraised, unnoticed, and yet one of the most valuable assets in our society.” -Billy Graham

When Kenneth (Ken) Lee Steenhoek, 83, was called home by his Savior on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, his family lost a good father, husband, brother, grandfather, and friend.

Ken was born in Pella, Iowa, on September 6th, 1940, to Bill and Freda Steenhoek. When Ken was 3 years old his family moved to Denver, Colorado, where he spent the majority of his life. After high school, Ken enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed in California and Nebraska, working on missile silos. He married his sweetheart Jane Ann in 1962 and loved her for 52 years, until the Lord called her home in 2014. After serving four years with the Army, Ken completed the plumber’s apprenticeship in Denver and spent his career on many construction projects in and around Denver. He maintained a plumber’s license and membership in the United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters for 61 years.

On weekends when his children were young, he volunteered with various ski patrols along the front range. He often took his children with him, passing on his love for the Rocky Mountains to his children and then eventually to his grandchildren.

Ken loved entertaining his family and friends. He was the master of one-liners, always trying to make his loved ones smile. Ever the baby brother to his three sisters, Ken was the life of the party. His endearing spirit inspired his nieces and nephews to call him “Uncle Kenny.” When he spent a few years living in a retirement community in Florida with Jane, Ken oversaw the parties and social activities. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and became the unofficial neighborhood handy man.

In 2018, Ken reconnected with his high school friend, Clarissa (Chris), and a spark grew. They married and spent six happy years together exploring the mountains he loved so much.

Ken is survived by his wife, Clarissa (Chris) Cayrene Steenhoek of Denver, CO; his children: Julie Ann Steenhoek, of Red Cloud, NE; Kurt William (Michelle) Steenhoek, of Fort Myers, FL; and Darren Corie (Jamelyn) Steenhoek, of Fort Myers, FL; and his stepchildren Sheila Van Dyke (Larry) of Denver, CO; and Craig (Val) Top, of Modesto, CA. He is also survived by ten cherished grandchildren: Jonathan, Kaylynn, Kory, Annie, Nicholas, Joshua, Elena, Haley, Alexander, and Gerrit; and five beloved great grandchildren. He is also survived by two sisters: Marilyn Dekker and Phyllis Kamstra. Ken was preceded in death by his first wife Jane Ann; his parents, Bill and Freda Steenhoek; his sister Betty; and his daughter-in-law Kim.