Kenneth Leon Sears, 83, of Creswell, Ore. passed away on Thursday, Dec. 17, 2020 in Cottage Grove, Ore. of complications from dementia.
Ken was born Oct. 14, 1937 in Broken Bow, Neb. to parents Edwin Leroy Sears from York, Nebraska and Teedie Mae Emerson from Westerville, Neb.
Ken graduated from Broken Bow High School in 1956 and then entered the United States Navy from 1956-60 as an Electronic Technician-2. He attained the rank of petty officer second class.
After receiving his Good Conduct Medal and Honorable Discharge, Ken returned to Broken Bow for one year. There he worked as an appliance and house electrician as well as a plumber.
In 1961, Ken moved to Eugene, Ore. where he repaired and operated the movie projection equipment for the Creswell Star Theatre. Ken was married to Pamela Kay Vaughn from 1968-95. Together they raised three sons.
Ken then worked for Southern Pacific Railroad as an electrician repairman for all communication equipment and relay sites. He worked from 1965-92 with the railroad, starting as a repairman, and eventually became the supervisor over the Washington, Oregon and California areas. Ken’s hobbies included spending time with family, flying his Piper Cruiser and operating his ham radios. He was very dedicated to his church family and helped maintain his church facilities for many years.
Ken is preceded in death by parents, Edwin and Teedie Sears and sister, Martha “Louise” Clark. Ken is survived by his brother, David (Connie) Sears, of Wickenburg, Ariz.; sons James (Penny) Sears of Creswell, Keith (Barbara) Sears of Creswell, and Robert (Jody) Sears of Cheney, Wash; nine grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.
Those wishing to honor his life can make a donation to Magnolia Village Memory Care in Cottage Grove. A private family graveside will be held on Saturday, Jan. 2 in Creswell.
