Kenneth Thomas Laesser

Kenneth Thomas Laesser

1932-2025

Ken Laesser was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, neighbor, and friend. He enriched the lives of everyone who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

Ken was born in Windsor, Ontario on December 7th, 1932, the youngest child of James and Lillian Laesser.

Ken devoted his early years to military service. He enlisted in the US Navy in 1951 and served for 3 years. He later enlisted in the United States Coast Guard and there he found his passion, serving for 20 years before his retirement in 1974. In 1969, he was awarded the Coast Guard Unit Commendation Ribbon for exceptionally meritorious service. His time in the Coast Guard took him to the Four Corners of the World, crossing the equator, the prime meridian, and journeying to the Artic and Antarctic Circles.

In 1993, Ken married the love of his life, Susan. They spent the next 28 years together enjoying their retirement. They resettled in Monmouth, Oregon to be near family and from there they traveled the world via planes, cruise ships, and eventually an RV. Ken and Susan's years together were filled with adventures, and a shared love of music, theater and history. As they got older, they were happiest at home surrounded by family and their beloved dogs. Nothing brought Ken more pride than being a grandfather and great-grandfather, he loved and spoiled his grandkids until the day he passed and took immense joy in their accomplishments.

Ken battled and overcame many health challenges in his later years, facing each one head on. On March 16th, 2025, he passed away peacefully in his home after spending his last days surrounded by his family, his amazing caregiver, his dog Buddy, and his longtime neighbor and friend.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents, 11 siblings, his son Kevin Laesser, stepson Stephen Craiovan, and his wife Susan Laesser. He is survived by his children Dwight (Nancy) Laesser and Cheryl Wells, his stepchildren Leslie Cole, Allison (Wayne) Heckenlaible, Andrea Craiovan and his grandchildren Joseph (Rosie) Laesser, Jeanette (Aaron) Quiring, Daniel Hall, Elizabeth (Eric) Wavra, Michael (Amanda) Murray, Vincent Craiovan and 10 great grandchildren.