Kenneth Larry Virgin

Kenneth Larry Virgin, age 87, passed away on June 28, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on August 7, 1935, in St. Anthony, Idaho, to George Oliver and Virgie Virgin and is survived by his brother, Terry. Ken was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, whose presence touched the lives of all who knew him.

Family was at the center of Ken’s world. Ken adored his wife and sweetheart of 65 years, Kathleen McLaughlin, whom he married in the Idaho Falls Temple. He was counseled early in life to not take your wife for granted: court her your whole life so that she knows you love her. Together they traveled the world, to Israel, Alaska, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and others. They loved to go adventuring, skiing and camping both together and with the family. Their enduring love continues to be an inspiration to all who witnessed it.

Ken was a wonderful father to his five children – Cheri, VeAnne, Ken, Camaria, and Paul – instilling in them the values of service, laughter, integrity, and the importance of education. He was an iconic cute grandpa to his eleven grandchildren – Ryan, Becca, Anastazia, Kenny, Sarah, Megan, Ethan, Quinn, Viken, Kieryn, and Zane – and one great-grandchild Phillip, showering them with love, wisdom, and endless memes, jokes, and ice cream.

Ken’s devotion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints filled his life with service. He served four missions – Eastern States, Oregon Portland Institute, Nauvoo Temple, and Orange County FamilySearch Library. He enjoyed serving as seminary teacher, working with the youth and as Bishop. In addition, he was a long-term volunteer in the San Diego and Newport Beach Temples and formed lifelong friendships with the members of his gospel study group, the Huis.

In addition to church service, Ken actively participated in the Rotary Club. His commitment was evidenced by countless community service and humanitarian projects and his role as chapter president.

Professionally, Ken had a long and successful career as a respected pharmacist. He received his doctorate of pharmacy from USC. In addition to working and managing at Sav-on and CVS, he owned and managed the San Juan Pharmacy with his wife for 18 years and providing his family (and some friends!) with their early career starts.(or first jobs)

Beyond his professional endeavors, dedicated service, and cherished family life, Ken embraced a variety of hobbies. He was an avid puzzler, an amateur genealogist, and an outdoor adventurer. His intrepid spirit led him to the depths of the ocean as an enthusiastic scuba diver and underwater photographer. He had a deep enjoyment of music in all forms. Whether playing the accordion, engaging in family singing sessions, or immersing himself in the melodies of a player piano, he found joy and unity in the power of music to uplift the soul and unite the family.

Ken leaves behind a legacy of love, service, laughter, and cherished memories. While his physical presence will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to have known him.

Ken Virgin will forever remain in our hearts, his memory etched in the lives he touched.