Kenneth Riedesel

Kenneth Duane Riedesel of Farmington, NM passed away on February 7, 2024 at the age of 90. He was born October 15, 1933 in Paton, Iowa to Kermit and Elva Riedesel.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Kermit and Elva, son, Kevin Riedesel, and daughter, Kathy Foster from a previous marriage.

Kenneth is survived by his wife, Lila Riedesel, Son, Heath Riedesel, daughter, Elva Stafford. Grandchildren, Ethan, Taylin and Nolan Riedesel, and Evan and Gavin Stafford.

Brothers, Quentin and Gerald Riedesel and sister, Ardith Ott.

Ken grew up on a family farm in Iowa with his brothers Quentin, Gerald, and sister Ardith. His family always affectionately referred to him as Duane - his middle name. To this day you know his family is calling when they ask for Duane. They maintained a close relationship until his passing. Family was always important to Ken / Duane.

Ken married Lila Ewing on September 8th, 1972. They had two children Heath and Elva. He was a hard-working husband and father. He started working for Hormel Foods in Fort Dodge, IA at age 18 and retired from the Austin, Minnesota facility after 30 years at age 48. He often shared fond memories of that work record and wore his Hormel and Spam caps with pride. He many times shared the retirement card he carried with him for 42 years. After his retirement he did many odd jobs to support his income.

His life centered around being one of Jehovah's Witnesses. It was the focus of his life. He loved sharing and studying Bible truths for free with others. He always had quality friends at the local congregations where he lived in Iowa, Minnesota, Arizona, and New Mexico. Everyone always loved and admired his calm and mild demeanor. He got along with everyone and enjoyed socializing and sharing stories. He enjoyed life, focusing on the positives, and always had a smile on his face and laughter under his breath. It was his belief as a Jehovah's Witness he will one day be resurrected to life and reunited with his family and friends. It was this belief that kept him upbeat and positive, smiling throughout his battle with cancer in his final days.