Kenneth Dennis Bishop

Ken Bishop was born May 23, 1927, in Iowa City, Iowa, and died on July 29, 2026, in Des Moines after a brief illness. His father was Warren L. Bishop, and mother was Maye W. Bishop. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and two sisters and his beloved wife, Lorraine. Ken is survived by a daughter Shauna Billingsley (Jim) and Mark Bishop (Barbara Argenta) as well as many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.

Ken grew up on a farm in Eastern Iowa. He served in the US Navy during World War II. After coming home, he attended University of Iowa earning a BA Degree. During that time there were a number of part-time jobs, the most memorable was spent two summers following the wheat harvest working with a custom combine crew from Oklahoma to North Dakota.

He held several more formal jobs before finding what was to be thirty-four years of working through several of their technical divisions at the Firestone Tire Plant in Des Moines.

Ken was a member of the Highland Park Christian Church serving on many boards and committees spanning 70 plus years. He was all about serving others; including Kiwanis, Christmas in April, and the Highland Park Neighborhood organization. He was known for his compassion for his family, friends, and neighbors. He never seemed to find a person that he didn’t like. He had a great sense of humor. Ken would take daily walks with Mark’s dog Buddy and would greet and talk to people in the neighborhood. He had a sharp mind until the end. He loved his AM newspaper and kept up with all the local and national issues. Ken had a curiosity for learning and healthy debate. He was a beloved father, uncle, neighbor, and friend. He will be deeply missed.

Kenneth will be honored at a Funeral Service at McLaren's Chapel, 801 19th Street, West Des Moines, IA on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 10:00 am with a Committal Service to follow at Resthaven Cemetery, 801 19th Street, West Des Moines, IA.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be directed to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa in honor of Ken.