Ken Lixie

Kenneth Wayne Lixie, 91, of Farmington Hills, Michigan, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on December 29, 2024. Born on September 19, 1933, in Alpena, Michigan, he was the cherished son of Frederick and Genevieve Lixie. He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved brother, Francis.

Ken lived a full and rich life, one rooted in family, faith, and service. He was a proud graduate of St. Stephens High School in Port Huron, where he excelled in both football and basketball. After high school, Ken served in the United States Army for two years, a testament to his dedication to his country.

On June 25, 1955, Ken married the love of his life, Elizabeth "Liz" Lixie. Together, they shared 69 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and adventure. They first settled in Royal Oak, Michigan, and eventually made their home in Gaylord, Michigan, where they spent 32 years. During his time in Gaylord, Ken was an active member of the Michaywe community, enjoying the camaraderie of his neighbors and making a lasting impact on the lives of many.

Ken worked for General Motors for 34 years, retiring with pride before settling into the quieter life of Northern Michigan. In his retirement, Ken and Liz moved to Farmington Hills to be closer to family, where they enjoyed their time together in the company of their children and grandchildren.

A devoted father, Ken is survived by his loving children, Leann (Keith) Purgaric, Jeff (Stephanie), Dan (Suzette), John (Karen), and Matt (Cherie). He was a proud and doting grandfather to Kenny, Kyle, Christine, Hannah, Erin (Anthony), Shelby, JP, Jacquelyn, Justin, Paige, and Madelynn, and a cherished great-grandfather to Lilah Joy. He was also a dear brother to Lauralee (Andy) and brother-in-law to Amy.

Ken’s love for his family was boundless. He was deeply involved in his children's activities, including serving as head of the T-Ball organization and supporting their hockey endeavors. His passions extended to golf, racquetball, and, above all, his beloved Detroit Lions. Ken remained a loyal Lions fan throughout his life, never giving up hope that his team would one day succeed. He was elated to witness their recent success, a source of immense pride for him.

Ken’s impact was felt far beyond his immediate family. His warmth, generosity, and kind heart touched everyone he met. His devotion to Liz, his children, and his grandchildren was unparalleled, and they were the center of his world.

A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, from 2-8 p.m. at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd., Livonia, MI 48152. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at 11 a.m. (gathering at 10:30 a.m.) at St. Kenneth Catholic Church, 14951 N Haggerty Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Gaylord Area Council for the Arts or St. Kenneth Catholic Church in Ken’s memory.

Ken’s legacy will live on through the many lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.