Kenneth J. Wiant

Throughout his life, Ken was known for his love of family, hardworking spirit, and caring heart. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose warmth and steady presence brought comfort and joy to those around him.

Ken was born on June 29, 1956, in Charlton Heights, West Virginia, to Glen Wiant, Jr. and Marion Joanne Wiant. He graduated from Boardman High School in Youngstown, Ohio, in 1974 and went on to serve in the United States Air Force as a crew chief at George Air Force Base.

A lifelong learner, Ken earned his bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida and later completed his Ph.D. in Finance at the University of South Carolina. Throughout his distinguished career in higher education, he served as a professor, department chair, dean, vice president at multiple campuses, and director of a technology institute at both Tennessee Technological University and Florida Atlantic University. He was recognized on numerous occasions for his excellence in teaching, leadership, and dedication to student success.

Ken had a passion for restoring classic cars, a hobby he shared with his best friend, Robin Roberts. Together they brought numerous vehicles back to life, including a 1962 Ford F100 that earned a National Best in Class award. Robin affectionately nicknamed him "Doc," a name that suited him perfectly. Ken was meticulous in everything he did and believed in doing things the right way rather than the easy way. His family often joked that he was the kind of person who measured five times and cut once.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Glen Wiant, Jr. and Marion Joanne Wiant.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 36 years, Lee Wiant; his daughter, Julia, and sons Kenneth and Donald (Candace); granddaughters Audrey and Zoe; siblings Edward Wiant (Christine), Sidney Wiant (Louanne), and Rosemary Wiant; aunt, Joan Wiant Fields, and uncle, James Kemper.

Special thanks to all who helped us care for him during his illness, including but not limited to his caregiver Destiny Cullom, his siblings, and special sidekick, Sadie the chihuahua.

Visitation will be held at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home, 2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, TN 37918, US, on July 12, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by a memorial service from 2:00 pm. The Rev. Lyn Oakley of Washington Presbyterian Church will be officiating.

A catered reception will take place at Berry Lynnhurst Funeral Home in the catering room, 2300 West Adair Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37918, on July 12, 2026, beginning at 3:00 pm.

Donations can be made to the Fisher House Foundation (www.fisherhouse.org) in lieu of flowers. The Fisher House Foundation builds comfort homes where military & veteran families can stay free of charge, while a loved one is in the hospital. These homes are located at military and VA medical centers around the world.