Kenneth Wayne Kretschmer

Ken was born on March 4, 1942, in Philadelphia, PA, to Frank and Lillian (nee Armstrong) Kretschmer and lived most of his adult life in Elkins Park, PA.

Ken was a devoted volunteer firefighter in Cheltenham Township since he was 16 years old and served his community for 67 years at both the Elkins Park and LaMott Fire Companies. He truly loved spending time with his friends and fellow firefighters and protecting his community. Ken was very proud when his grandson, Eric, joined him as a firefighter at Elkins Park.

Although Ken was passionate about and devoted to firefighting, he was even more devoted to his loving wife, Pauline, with whom he enjoyed over 61 years of marriage and shared two daughters, three grandsons and a great granddaughter. Ken loved spending time with his wife and family – his favorite times were when all of his family were together. Ken especially enjoyed the time he spent with his family and friends in Sea Isle City, NJ. While at the shore, Ken made it a point to make new friends and enjoy good music – from Jerry Blavat’s shows and FunZaLuv at the Oar House to Secret Service at the OD, where his dancing skills were admired by all.

Ken truly valued his family and the many friends he made throughout his life. He always enjoyed a lively party with good food, friends and music. He was also a hard worker and constantly on the move – whether it was in his yard or as a driver for Morrissey Construction where he worked and was a member of the Teamsters Union for over 35 years.

Ken is survived by his loving wife, Pauline (nee Chantry); daughters, Dawn Vahey and Amy Asta; sons-in-law, Chris Vahey and Rick Asta; grandsons, Eric Asta, Vance Asta and Christopher Vahey; great-granddaughter, Avery Asta; sister Carol Miller (nee Kretschmer) and brother, Frank Kretschmer.

Friends and family are invited and encouraged to join together to celebrate Ken’s life on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Southampton Estates, 238 Street Road, Southampton, PA 18966. Visitation from 10:00 – 11:00 am. Service at 11:00 with lunch to immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Southampton Estates Acts Samaritan Fund or to Elkins Park Fire Company.