Kenneth (Ken) Marvin Newman

Kenneth (Ken) Marvin Newman, resident of Palmer, Alaska, passed away January 18, 2024, at the age of 61. He is preceded in death by his father Richard Newman.

Ken was a loving son, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his children, Richard (Cassy) Newman, Rhonda Newman, Rachel (Edward) Magee, Renee Newman (Jessica Lachelt), and Ryan Newman; mother, Jeweldene Newman; brother, Michael Newman; sisters, Gloria Crofton, Debra Cramton, Kim Drew, and Karen Decker; and eight grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held in his honor at 12PM on Friday February 23rd, 2024, at Janssen’s Mat-Su Funeral Home.

Ken was born on May 18, 1962, in Saginaw, Michigan to Richard and Jeweldene Newman where he spent most of his childhood.

From the age of seventeen, Ken devoted his life to being a loving father to his five children. His path led him on many trips between Michigan and Alaska before making his final journey to Alaska in 2021, where he spent his remaining years surrounded by his children. He had many hobbies and was passionate about fishing, duck hunting, trapping, camping and everything Alaska had to offer.

Ken spent most of his career as a butcher which led him to open a game processing business and later transitioned into bartending.

Ken filled his days with the things he loved, creating the stories he would later tell in life. From catching the biggest fish or sitting quietly in the field with his companion Pepper to eating a late-night box of twinkies, he always enjoyed the little things. He was a simple man who appreciated a warm cup of coffee followed up with a game of chess and a late-night game of pool.

Ken was well known for his carefree spirit and ability to brighten up any room with his presence and laughter. He was a storyteller, and could go on for hours, picking one story after another from his collection. Whether telling a late-night spooky story, a memory from his past, a dream he had or anything in-between, he could make you laugh or cry without even trying. The stories could go on forever just so the conversation would never end.

He will be missed by so many whose lives he brightened daily. Ken will always be in our hearts and his legacy will live on through his children and grandchildren. May he forever rest in peace.