Connecticut. He was 66 years old.
Ken was larger-than-life, possessed a huge heart, and a wicked wit. He was a master of story
(after story!) with a keen sense of wordplay and impeccably-timed jokery. While the image he
tried to project was typified by bluster and bombast, friends and family all smiled inwardly,
knowing full-well that behind that facade was a man of life-long friendships and a deep love of
family, with a heart so soft that he was rumored to have been brought to tears by a touching
television commercial. A consummate host, his feasts were legendary and his generosity of
spirit was extended to all.
Ken was born on October 30, 1951 in Canton, Ohio to Michael and Phyllis Regan. He grew up
in Terrace Park, Ohio, graduated from Mariemont High School in 1969, and went on to attended
Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. He spent his twenties traveling the country and enjoying being
something of a hippie— it was the seventies, after all.
In 1982, at a small gathering at his parents’ house in Madison, Connecticut, Ken met the love of
his life, Betsy. After a whirlwind romance, including Ken moving up to Connecticut from
Philadelphia, the couple married in 1984. Ken and Betsy had three children, Kyle, Cameron,
and Johanna, and moved to Killingworth in 1992. Watching his children grow up was one of the
greatest joys of his life. Ken could always be found cheering at his kids’ sporting events and
attending their plays and concerts.
Ken started his long and successful career as a commercial lighting salesman in Philadelphia in
the late 70’s. He came to be known in the business as Regal Regan, Lord of Light. In his 35
years in Connecticut, he developed many friendships with his customers and associates. His
family would like to thank all of his colleagues for their support and generosity over the years.
They would especially like to thank Brian Onessimo and everyone at Graybar.
Ken is survived by his wife Betsy Welling Regan, children Kyle Regan, Cameron Slaby, and
Johanna Regan, son-in-law Chris Slaby and future son-in-law Tullio Milani. He also leaves
behind his loving family, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is preceded in
death by his parents Michael and Phyllis. His family would like to thank the wonderful staff of the
Guilford VNA, Yale Rehab Center at the Milford Hospital, and Family Practice Associates of
Guilford, Connecticut.
A celebration of Ken’s life will take place at First Congregational Church in Madison,
Connecticut at 1PM on Saturday March 10, 2018. All are welcome to attend and celebrate. The
family will also have calling hours at Swan Funeral Home in Clinton, Connecticut on Friday
March 9th from 5-7PM. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite local charities.
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