Kenneth Paul Kendrick Sr.

Ken met the love of his life in the most unexpected and wonderful way, at an arcade in the late 1970s. It was love at first sight, and from that moment on, the two were inseparable. They married and built a beautiful life and family of 4 together for more than 47 years. He was a devoted family man who found his greatest joy in being a father and grandfather. Ken had a gift for making the grandkids feel like the most special people in the world, and he had a legendary trick to prove it. He would secretly stash candy in drawers and then delight the children with his famous “Candy Magic”, a sleight-of-hand performance that made treats appear out of thin air. To the grandkids, Grandpa Ken wasn’t just pulling candy from nowhere; he was magic. It was a tradition they will carry in their hearts forever.

Ken was deeply proud of his Chippewa Native American heritage and carried that identity with him throughout his life. He held his culture and ancestry close, and it was a meaningful part of who he was; shaping his values, his sense of community, and his connection to something greater than himself. He embraced his roots with dignity and pride, and made sure those around him understood the importance of knowing where you come from.

A man of many passions, Ken loved the thrill of horse racing and took his kids to the race track, instilling in them a love of sports from an early age. He was a die-hard Detroit Lions, Tigers, and Michigan fan. He could always be counted on to call the kids just to talk sports. Ken had a deep love for classic rock music, and enjoyed attending concerts. He also loved a good game of poker or euchre with family.

Ken was a Mechanic by trade and shared his knowledge with those close to him, making him the go to for all things car related. Those who knew Ken will remember him as a funny, playful, hardworking,caring soul who would help anyone who needed it, no questions asked. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a little bit of magic.

Ken is survived by his wife, Patricia Kendrick; cherished children, Katherine (Matthew) Martin, Christy Kendrick, Jessica Kendrick, and Kenneth (Lisa) Kendrick Jr.; adored grandchildren, Daelin Martin, Donovan Martin, Desmond Martin, Savannah Rolston, Devin Martin, Dylan McKenzie, Carly Kendrick, Ronin Rolston, and Mya Martin; siblings, the late Lois Roth, Margaret Kendrick, Dianne (Tim) Rapson, and the late Marshall Kendrick Jr.; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at A.H. Peters Funeral Home, 20705 Mack Ave, Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan 48236, on May 16, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, followed by the Funeral Service at 4:00 pm at the same location.