Kenneth Allen Yorkston

Kenneth Allen Yorkston, “Ken” or “Kenny,” age 67, of Sanford, FL, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2023. He was born in Wilmington, DE, on December 30, 1955. He graduated from Thomas McKean High School where he was active in community service projects as a member of the Kiwanis Key Club for high school students. After graduation, Ken attended Lake City College in FL and pursued his interest in nature and the outdoors through his studies in forestry. He transferred to the University of Delaware, where he graduated with a degree in Agriculture. While living in Wilmington, Ken became a member at Cranston Heights Fire Company, where he was honored as a life member after more than 25 years of service as a dedicated firefighter and rescue diver. During this time, he also studied to become a paramedic.

Ken’s early career was spent working in the banking industry which led him back to Florida. Once again, the sunshine state allowed Ken to continue his love of the outdoors and to continue his calling to be of service to his community. As an emergency medical technician, Ken responded to the needs of neonate, pediatric and adult patients, at Advent Health in Orlando for more than 15 years.

Ken had a passion for animals, gardening, traveling, scuba diving, bowling, classic rock music, the Philadelphia Eagles, and “surf n’ turf.”

He was preceded in death by his mother, Doris Yorkston; father, John Yorkston; and brother-in-law, Kenneth Fanning. He is survived by his two daughters, Kari Yorkston (Joseph) and Jessica Yorkston (Jason); grandson, Jalen Meade, brother Cam Yorkston (Kathy); sister Karen Fanning; two nieces Christina Yorkston (Duncan) and Allison Przybylski (Keith); nephew, Kristian Fanning (Jennifer); several great nephews and a great niece; and his beloved dog, Baxter.

Anyone that had the pleasure of knowing Ken, knew of his big heart and generosity. He was always a gentleman with a kind smile and a friendly neighbor always willing to lend a helping hand. He touched the lives of many people, some he never knew, and his legacy will continue.

Interment at Silverbrook Cemetery will be private. A reception celebrating Ken’s life will be held on Thursday, June 1, 2023, from 4:30pm-7pm, at the Cranston Heights Fire Company, 3306 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE 19808.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial contributions be made to a charity of your choice or to the Cranston Heights Fire Company, 3306 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, DE 19808.

If you have any special memories or photos of Ken, please share them on the digital memorial page.