Kenneth was the beloved husband of the late Colleen Schou, with whom he shared nearly 70 years of marriage prior to her passing earlier this year. They met in high school, became high school sweethearts, and together built a beautiful family that brought them immense joy and pride.
He is survived by his children, Todd (Mary) Schou, Glenn (Sue) Schou, and Kendra (Dan) Rawls; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Colleen Schou; his daughter, Susan Urben; his grandchildren, Bryan Urben and Megan Urben; his parents, Axel and Mary Schou; and his brother, Allen Schou.
Ken proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy as a Seabee, where he developed his mechanical skills working on F4U Corsairs. This hands-on military experience smoothly transitioned into a career in the automotive industry. Following his service, he began working as a mechanic at Ford Motor Company, using his lifelong passion for cars to work his way up to the management level, where he oversaw multiple vehicle service garages in Dearborn, Michigan. He retired from Ford after 37 dedicated years.
Above all his professional accomplishments, Ken was a devoted family man who believed in putting family first. He was always there for his children and grandchildren whenever they needed him, providing a steady anchor for those he loved. For decades, a cornerstone of family time was gathering every summer at a cottage up north, a special tradition filled with lifelong memories made long before his retirement and his years of traveling and cruising with Colleen.
Ken’s legacy is one of honesty, integrity, and a hardworking spirit. He was a role model and an inspiration to many. May his memory bring comfort and strength to all who knew him.
Visitation will be held on Monday, September 21, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Harry J. Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, with a rosary service at 7:00 pm.
An in state will occur Tuesday, September 22, from 9:00 am to 9:30 am at St. Aidan's Church, 17500 Farmington Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, followed by a funeral mass beginning at 9:30 am.
Military honors and a committal service will follow at Glen Eden Memorial Park, 35667 Eight Mile Rd, Livonia, MI 48152, where he will be laid to rest with his beloved Colleen.
