Kenneth Allen McKee

Kenneth McKee, a cherished individual known for being a kind, caring, loving, and humorous personality, left us on May 17, 2024, in Bartlett, TN at the age of 74. Ken was born on October 12, 1949, in Hanford, CA.

Ken is predeceased by his parents Allen and Dortha McKee, brother Buddy Edmonds, sister Bobbie Counts, and his nephew, Michael Mitchell. He is survived by his sister Maggie McKee, nieces Kendra (Gary) Leegaard of Bartlett, TN, Jacquelene (Brooks) Petersen of Sequim ,WA, Stacy Mitchell of Long Beach, CA and Robin Morissette (Jeff) of Galveston, TX, as well as others. While he is survived by numerous great nieces and nephews, Clayton and Kenzie Leegaard of Bartlett, TN and Elizabeth Petersen of Nashville, TN, spent the remaining years of his life closest to him and they held a special place in his heart. He is missed tremendously by his dearest friend of over 41 years, Teresa Vernon. His departure leaves an unfillable void in their lives, yet they find comfort in the memories and everlasting love they shared.

Ken was raised in Hanford attending Hanford Union High School, graduating with the class of 1967. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. Ken was proud of his service to his country. He achieved the rank of Master Sergeant after 5 years of service. He served in Viet Nam in 1968-1969. His nickname he acquired in the military was Bear. If you knew him, you would understand why. He stayed in touch with many of his Air Force buddies, attending reunions and visits. He always had a ready smile for friends and would be there for anyone who needed a helping hand.

When his military life ended, Ken returned home to Hanford. He attended College of the Sequoias. He began working for Jiffy Foods as an auditor. This job took him to many states. When the Tachi Bingo Palace opened in the early 1980’s, he was hired as the Concessions Manager. After several years he took a similar position at another bingo site in Alabama. He worked several jobs during his life. His final employer was Kings County Human Services as an Eligibility Worker III, retiring in 2011.

Ken’s favorite hobby was traveling. Whether it was a day trip or longer, it didn’t matter to him. He loved riding his motorcycle whenever he could, sharing his passion with his brother Buddy and his biker friends. When he stopped riding his bike, his traveling bug didn’t leave. He enjoyed camping and most of all, the central coast. His absolute favorite place was Cayucos. Ken and Teresa were always up for the next adventure and in Ken’s famous words “I tend to go around Road Closed signs”.