Kenneth James Clapham

Born on December 1, 1944, Ken grew up in the San Antonio area, attending Thomas Jefferson High School, where he excelled at nearly every sport offered. After graduation, he continued his education at San Antonio College and Trinity University.

In 1969, Ken met the love of his life, Rosemary Curry. They married in 1971 and made their home in Austin, Texas, where he lived for the remainder of his life. He worked at the City of Austin's Electric Department for over 25 years and also, alongside both of his sons, at Royal Touch Cleaners in Austin's Delwood neighborhood. He served honorably in the Air Force Reserves for more than two decades.

Nothing mattered more to Ken than his family. He selflessly worked to provide his wife and sons with a stable, loving, and fun home, and eagerly attended all the games, performances, camping trips, and other family events with them. Ken was a kind, gentle, and loving person and a wonderful husband, father, brother, and friend. He indulged each family member's interests, driving all over to search for ghost towns, steam trains, Marfa lights, classic car museums, cookie cutters, and anything else his wife or sons happened to be interested in at the moment. He loved working with his hands, whether gardening, working on and detailing cars, or grilling the perfect steak or hamburger patty, and relaxing on weekends and holidays at "The Farm," the family country retreat near LaGrange, where he could often be found watching his beloved Texas Longhorns.

Ken was also an excellent Grandpa who, in the words of his grandson, "made us feel special and made everything more fun." He had a way of making everyone feel like they were his best friend. His family and friends will miss him terribly, but are comforted by the many good memories of their time with him.

Ken is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Rosemary Clapham, his sons and their families, Christopher (Jacqueline) and John (Silvia), his grandchildren Angelina and Oliver, and his dear siblings Toni Sanders and Tom Clapham and their families. Ken was joyfully anticipating the arrival of a new grandson later this year—a blessing he knew of and held close to his heart.

Ken's family would like to thank his caregivers at Suncrest Hospice and Brookdale Beckett Meadows (especially Kat) for the care they provided at the end of his life. A memorial service for Ken will be held at Shepherd of the Hills Presbyterian Church soon; this page will be updated with the date and time as soon as they are available.