Kenneth James McArthur, loving father and devoted friend, passed away with his children by his side on the morning of March 20th, 2018. He was 59.
Ken was born in Reno, Nevada. His parents, Richard and Barbara, raised him alongside his five siblings: David, John, Kathi, Karen, and Richard in Las Vegas, Nevada. As a high school student, he enjoyed playing junior varsity football and varsity wrestling.
On a scholarship from the Air Force ROTC, Ken attended Northern Arizona University and received a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology. While there, he also wrestled competitively at the collegiate level. He completed his Master of Business Administration at the University of Missouri amid beginning his military career.
For over twenty-one years, Ken faithfully served as an Officer in the United States Air Force. His long tenure began February 19th, 1982 in Flagstaff, AZ. Over the years, his varied and complex assignments led him and his family to a number of mission-critical locations, including Davis-Monthan AFB in Arizona; Whiteman AFB in Missouri; Bethlehem, Pennsylvania; Hartford, Connecticut; Wright-Patterson AFB in Ohio; and finally to Hanscom AFB in Massachusetts, where he completed his career as Chief of Compliance Activities at the Electronic Systems Center. As an Officer, his primary specialties included being an Acquisition Manager for over twelve years, a Combat & Crew OC for over five years, a Missile Procedures Trainer Operator for over one year, and an Assistant Professor of Aerospace Studies for two years. He holds a wide variety of medals for his service. Ken honorably retired on July, 31st, 2003 with the rank of Major. In the years since, a multitude of defense contractors and consulting firms have benefitted from his knowledge and experience.
During his many years of service, Ken was also an avid powerlifter. He competed at the national level and obtained a worthy collection of high rankings and awards. Nevertheless, despite all of his efforts, he always managed to find time for his children. He coached wrestling and soccer teams that his sons played for and, as part of a custom, cherished time spent at amusement parks.
After settling in New England, Ken grew an appreciation for warm weather and ventured regularly to the Caribbean and Florida. His ideal setting was a pool or beach under a sunny sky where he could relax and read one of his many science fiction novels. He was a dedicated Boston sports fan (which wasn’t always easy), enjoyed working out, competed in Texas hold ‘em tournaments, frequented Hanscom AFB to greet old friends, and, most of all, spent the time he needed with his loved ones.
To many, Ken was a strong man in more ways than one. He was always eager to use his position as leverage to help those that needed it – simply because he could. His family and friends can speak to his generosity. In his final days, Ken exhibited a kind of strength, a spirit, that will not go unremembered. He was the true definition of an American soldier, coach, impassioned father, and steadfast friend.
Ken is survived by his three children - his world - Kristen, Gregory, and Tyler; young granddaughter, and light of his life, Vera Rose; sister, Kathi Milley; good friend and mother of his children, Maryann Balducci; son-in-law, Jay Beckwith; future daughter-in-law, Shari Tanzer; and a large extended family of friends.
Kenneth James McArthur will be truly missed by those that surrounded him.
Relatives and friend are invited to attend his Funeral Service at 12 p.m. on Friday, March 30, 2018 at the Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home 40 MacArthur Blvd., Bourne. Interment with military honors at the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne. Visitation prior to service 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
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