John Kenneth “Ken” Walczak passed peacefully on July 15, 2024, with his family by his side.

Ken was born Aug. 29, 1937, to John and Phyllis (Eaton) Walczak.

In 1955, Ken graduated from North River High School.

After graduation Ken went to work in the woods until he was drafted by the United States Army. He proudly served his country in the 10th Cav, C Troop, 7th Infantry Division. Ken spent his 21st and 22nd birthdays in the hills of Korea.

On June 25, 1960, Ken married Joy Ann Bickar. Together they had three children, Joseph, Robert and Shelly.

Ken retired in 2000, after a 43-year career with Weyerhaeuser Timber Operations. He took great pride in his work. He acquired a few nicknames over the years, “Wally,” “Hook,” “The Legend,” and a few others that are not able to be repeated.

Ken was a charter member of the Artic Fire Hall, a member of Aberdeen’s VFW Post 224, and the IWA Union.

Ken was a man of faith. He always felt that it was through God’s grace he was able to provide well for his family. He was a man of integrity and those who knew him were better for it.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents John and Phyllis Walczak, brother Joseph Walczak, son Joseph Eric Walczak, great-granddaughter Avery Shay Walczak and brother-in-law Ron Conway.

He is survived by his son Robert (Sheri) Walczak of Lynden, daughter Shelly Walczak of Cosmopolis, 3 grandsons, 3 granddaughters, 11 great-grandchildren, and sister, Lucille Conway, of Wishkah Valley.

Our family’s “Hero” will live in our hearts forever.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, Aug. 2, 2024, at 11 a.m. located at Fern Hill Cemetery in Aberdeen, Washington. Please leave a memory or note of condolence for the family at www.fernhillfuneral.com. Burial arrangements have been entrusted to Twibell’s Fern Hill Funeral Home in Aberdeen, Washington.