Ken Fijalkowski

Born May 2, 1942, in Neffs, Ohio, he enjoyed an idyllic childhood he often described as growing up in Mayberry. He loved to return “back home” and reminisce about his family and friends, and the fun experiences that shaped him.

He married his “sweetie,” Diane (Di), and together they began the loving story of our family. He was proud of his daughters, treasured his grandchildren, and took great joy in sports, music, and friendships. He worked hard, cherished Mom, and never missed a chance to get a new car—which he did…often.

As a young man, Dad studied structural design and began his career working for Jeffrey Manufacturing. He would eventually move to Fling & Partners, and then retire from AEP. Through this journey he made great friends and colleagues he would talk about and enjoy friendships with for the rest of his life.

Dad was the kindest man you could ever meet—unique, funny, and always putting others before himself. If something needed fixing, there was no tape, glue, or tool he didn’t have, and a quick trip to the garage usually led to an inventive—and sometimes comical—solution. And if you borrowed something, he brought out the sharpie to write “KLF” on it so you would know whose it was!

From family gatherings to vacations, we shared so many joyful moments made better by a man who truly loved being surrounded by those he cared about. His teasing nature, big personality, and expressive eyebrows will be deeply missed. Dad lived humbly, fully, and with great love, leaving behind a legacy of strength, laughter, and devotion that lives on in all of us.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents Ann & Jerry Fijalkowski, and his loving wife of 60 years, Diane (Harris) Fijalkowski. He is survived by his daughters, Kim (Bryan) Allen and Sherri (Eddie) Davis; grandchildren Amanda (Max) Harness, Lauren (Josh) Ebbrecht, Adam (Casey) Davis, Nick Allen, and Hillary Allen; great-grandchildren Leo Harness, Lane Harness, and Garrett Ebbrecht. Also survived by his beloved sister, Karen (Jim) Martinek; sister-in-law Donna (Robert) Schoonover; and nieces and nephews Bryan (Tara) Schoonover, Alyssa Martinek, Piper Reishman, and Justin Martinek.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life with a funeral mass on January 2 at 11:00 a.m. at Schoedinger East Funeral Home, 5360 E. Livingston Ave., Columbus. A catered lunch will follow at Bucca di Beppo. Dad was a devoted Ohio State fan, so please feel comfortable and join us for mass and lunch in your favorite OSU attire.