Kenneth W. Gillham Sr.
Kenneth W. Gillham Sr., age 85, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026. Born on December 5, 1940, in Springfield, Ohio, Ken was the son of William Riely Gillham and Mary Mae Gillham.
Ken graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1958 before proudly serving his country in the United States Army, including an overseas assignment in France. On May 26, 1963, he married the love of his life, Mary K. Spriggs. Together they shared 63 years of marriage, raising three children: Sharon Whitford, Susan Gillham, and Kenneth Gillham Jr.
The family made their home in New Carlisle, Ohio, before relocating to Tawas, Michigan, in 1984. Following his military service, Ken worked as an autobody repairman and painter. January 1986, he opened K & K Coachwerks, where he worked side by side with his son for more than 25 years, building a respected business and serving customers throughout the region. Through his work, Ken built not only a successful business but also countless friendships and lasting relationships throughout the community.
Service to others was a guiding principle throughout Ken’s life. He was a member of the Eagles Club in New Carlisle and a longtime member of Tawas Elks Lodge #2525, where he became a Life Member and faithfully served as treasurer for many years. He was also an active member of Tawas United Methodist Church, where he dedicated his time to helping with the church’s backpack program.
Ken’s commitment to helping others extended well beyond the organizations he belonged to. He volunteered for St. Joseph Health System and later Ascension Health, driving the courtesy van and transporting patients to medical appointments, including trips to the cancer center in West Branch. He served on the Tawas City Council and the Tawas Planning Commission, always looking for ways to improve the community he loved.
His generosity touched countless lives. Over the years, Ken supported youth sports, nursery school programs, area soccer leagues, the Huron Hockey Association, and many other community initiatives. He was always willing to contribute his time, energy, and resources to causes that benefited children and families. He believed that strong communities are built by people who are willing to serve, and he quietly lived that belief every day.
Ken was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing. He was a member of the Goose Fever Hunt Club in Ohio and Ducks Unlimited, and he especially cherished the time spent duck hunting with his son and daughter Susan. Golf was his lifelong passion, providing years of enjoyment and camaraderie. In later years, he discovered a new creative outlet in stained glass, a hobby he thoroughly enjoyed sharing with his wife.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents, William Riely and Mary Mae Gillham, and his younger brother, Gary Gillham.
Above all, Ken was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 63 years, Mary; his children, Sharon Whitford, Susan Gillham, and Kenneth Gillham Jr.; his half-brother, Chuck Gordon; his grandchildren, Kasey Whitford and Aimee Metzer, Shane Whitford, Klay and Rachel Gillham, and Kristopher and Briana Gillham; and his great-grandchildren, Lia and Luke Whitford; Lilly, Kooper, Kellen, and Kameron Gillham; and Walter, Eloise, Eugene, and Caroline Gillham.
Ken will be remembered as a hardworking husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who believed in seeing things through, never giving up, and always doing his best. He led by example, teaching his children the value of perseverance, integrity, and service to others.
Whether through his business, his volunteer work, his community involvement, or simply helping a neighbor in need, Ken made a lasting difference in the lives of many.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the entire staff of the Iosco County Medical Care Facility for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness shown to Ken over the past several years. Their dedication and support will never be forgotten.
In accordance with his wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Ken’s life will be announced at a later date.
Obituary lovingly written by the family.
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