Kenneth “Ken” Frederick Best was a loving husband, father, son, brother, cousin, uncle, and friend. He died at his residence, Sherman Glen Manor, on Monday April 1, 2024.
He was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia to Nelson Best and Sheila Kathleen McNaughton on October 8, 1943. After his school years in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Ken moved to the U.S and began a career in military service. He proudly served in the Marines from 1961-1966, and the Air Force from 1966-1982. He retired in 1982 with the rank of Tech Sargent. The many commendations he received included the Marines Good Conduct Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Longevity Service Award ribbon.
While stationed at Wurtsmith AFB in Oscoda, MI Ken met his future bride, Joyce Elaine Fairfield. They married at the base Chapel on February 10, 1968. The couple lived in Oscoda, Dayton OH, Germany, Salt Lake City UT, and Kokomo IN. At each duty station the Bests created a welcoming home where they hosted other service members socially, at holiday celebrations, and Bible studies. Wherever they were stationed, they found a church to fellowship with.
While living in Indiana, Ken and Joyce welcomed their longed-for child, Linzey Nelson. Following retirement from the Air Force they settled in Tawas City, MI. Ken worked at Tawas Plating from 1982-2005. Always athletic, Ken played and coached soccer and hockey. He was a passionate hockey fan all his life. He was an active father to Linzey and trained with him for the Special Olympics. Linzey’s achievements in the Special Olympics was a highlight in Ken’s life as a dad. As a follower of Christ, and member of Harbor Church (East Tawas Assembly of God) Ken served as usher and sound engineer. Other interests included music, short wave radio, and staying in touch with family and friends.
Ken is survived by his son, Linzey Nelson of Oscoda, MI; brothers, Pery Canan, Mark Canan, and Craig Best; sister, Julianne Best; and by sister-in-law, Marti Fairfield and brother-in- law, Wayne Fairfield. Numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, and countless friends living in the U.S. and Canada will remember this special man. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Elaine, his parents, and parents in law, Charles O. and Arvilla Fairfield, by his sister Holly Best, brother-in-law Charles A. Fairfield, and sister-in-law Cindy Fairfield.
A service honoring Ken Best’s life will be held at Harbor Church, 311 E. Lincoln St, East Tawas MI on Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Visitation from 11:00 am-12, Service with Military Honors at 12:00.
Pastor Scott Shamel officiating and Buresh Funeral Home coordinating.
Internment of ashes at a future date in Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Tawas City, MI.
The family wishes to thank the staff of Sherman Glen Manor and The Care Team Hospice for their kindness and skill in caring for Ken. In lieu of flowers, please consider taking a veteran out for coffee or donating to your favorite good cause in the community.
Obituary lovingly written by the family.
