Kenneth L. McKinzie

Kenneth Leroy McKinzie, longtime, well respected, Welch, OK businessman, 84, passed away December, 9, 2014 at Medicalodge in Coffeyville, KS after a short illness. He was born April 29, 1930 in Hollow, OK to Jesse James and Zada Inex (Loshbaugh) McKinzie. He was raised in the rural Welch area where he attended Plateau School. He was a graduate of Welch High School. He attended college at NEO A&M in Miami as well as OSU in Stillwater, obtaining a degree in Electrical Engineering. In 1953, he moved to Wichita, KS, where he worked for Boeing Aircraft for 11 years. He proudly served his country with the United States Army as a Field Radio Repairman from November 1953 until November 1955. During his service he received the National Defense Service Medal as well as a Good Conduct Medal. He transferred to Army Reserve to complete 8 years of service under Universal Military Training and Service Act, before being honorably discharged. Kenneth returned to the Welch area in 1964, and opened Welch TV & Sales, which he operated until his passing.On August 30, 1969, he married Glenda Bernson. The couple continued to reside in Welch where they were active in their community. On May 3, 2012, Glenda preceded Kenneth in death, after almost 43 years of marriage. Kenneth enjoyed being with his family and spending time at the lake. This past summer he got to go fishing for the first time since the age of 23. He was so proud of the two catfish he had caught. He was beamin' from ear to ear. He also had a special place in his heart for his church family. He was an active member of the Welch Baptist Church where he was a huge supporter of the youth program, and was always eager to help where needed. He will be greatly missed. He was also preceded in death by his parents; 2 brothers; and 1 sister. He is survived by 1 sister, Marilyn Mulvany of Euless, TX; several nieces, nephews; great nieces and nephews; and a host of friends. The family will receive friends from 6-8p.m. Friday, December 12, 2014 at Welch Baptist Church. Services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, December 13, 2014 at Welch Baptist Church. Pastor Bob Whitchurch will officiate. Honorary Mention Casket Bearers will be Herbie Gamble, Everette Johnson, Dwayne Wallace, Bill Tullis, Jerry Spaulding, Brendon Jinks, Brad Jinks, Jerry Rexwinkle, Jim Jinks, David Jinks, Jeff Jinks, Jonathan Seger, and Jerry Allen. Private family burial at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Welch Baptist Church Youth Program.

Kenneth L. McKinzie

December 9, 2014