Dr. Kenneth Silver Unruh

A Life of Curiosity, Adventure, and Love

Dr. Kenneth Silver Unruh, 85, of Summerfield, Florida, and formerly of Havre de Grace, Maryland, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, surrounded by his family. A man of many passions and an unforgettable wit, he lived a life defined by curiosity, a thirst for adventure, and unwavering dedication to his family.

Born in Havre de Grace, Maryland, on October 30, 1939, Ken's journey led him through diverse and distinguished careers. He was a graduate of Havre de Grace High school Class of 1957. He was immensely proud of his Doctorate in Engineering and Geology and insisted on being called "Dr. Unruh." Over the years, he worked as a technical writer for the state and local governments, and spent much of his career as an Operations Research Analyst at Aberdeen Proving Ground. A trained geologist, his love for rocks and minerals was lifelong, and he even used his expertise to craft his own jewelry. He also served six years in the National Guard and often shared stories from his time there, including his experiences during the Baltimore Riots.

Beyond his professional life, Ken's interests were as vast and varied as his personality. He was a ghost tour guide for his daughter's company, Havre de Haunts, where he delighted visitors with local lore and stories. He was a steadfast supporter of his youngest daughter in her theatrical talents, preparing meals for the dinner theatre, and chauffeuring her to countless performances. He was a singer himself and would accompany the tunes on his guitar. He even recorded a few songs with his daughter and was the “sound man” for several of her local performances. A true collector at heart, his love for comic books and stamps led him to build an impressive collection and even launch his own business, AGC Stamps. He was a fan of classic entertainment, enjoying Westerns like Bat Masterson and Roy Rogers (but only in black and white), and the rock 'n' roll of the 1950s, especially Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, and the Big Bopper.

Ken's greatest adventure was his marriage of 54 years to his beloved wife, Donna, whom he would jokingly introduce as his "first wife". He often shared the story of the moment he met her, saying he heard a voice from God say, “This is the woman made for you.” They endearingly called each other "Boo." Together, they traveled the globe, with Ken always making sure their adventures were shared with those he loved the most. After a lifetime of enduring the cold, he retired to Summerfield, Florida, in 2011 to escape the snow.

Throughout his life, Ken’s unique personality shone through. He was a man of strong conservative political convictions and a famously dark sense of humor. When asked how he was, he would often reply, “I’m reasonable.” He loved reading anything by H.P. Lovecraft, as well as Tales from the Crypt, and he would read Uncle Wiggily to his daughters when they were young. Later in life, he could always be found watching any football game, no matter the team or how long ago it was played, but was always secretly rooting for The Baltimore Ravens.

Above all his accomplishments, Ken was most proud of his family, often saying they were the best thing that ever happened to him. He loved being called "Father Supreme" and "Grandfather Supreme." He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna Eva Unruh (née Hurtt); his daughters, Lisa Lopez (Joe Lopez) and Erika Thibeau (Mark Thibeau); his cherished grandchildren, Tyler Lopez, Sean Ryan, August Bankerd, Mikayla Lopez, and Olive Thibeau; dear friend, Al Smith (Margo Smith); and his dog, Bonnie.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth Silver Unruh, Sr. and Dorothy Ward; his sister, Marion Unruh; and too many dogs and cats to count.

A gathering of friends and family will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with the funeral service beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Zellman Funeral Home, 927 Pulaski Highway, Havre de Grace, Maryland. The committal service will follow at Harford Memorial Gardens in Aberdeen, Maryland.

As Dr. Unruh Supreme always said, “Death will be my greatest adventure of all.”