KENNETH WILLARD CONNON

Ken was born in Alpena on Feb. 8, 1946 to the late Willard and Rita (Gapczynski) Connon. On Aug. 29, 1970 Ken married Linda Liebler at St. Anne Catholic Church and shared 50 years of love.

Ken generously gave his time to his community throughout the years. He was a member of the Kiwanis Club, serving as acting president, he spearheaded the Flag Project honoring U.S. veterans and loved ones. Ken was Alpena’s beloved Santa Claus for 30 years, bringing joy to children during the holidays. He was also chairman of Michigan’s Junior Miss Scholarship Program for many years.

Ken spent his free time cheering on his grandson at hockey games, gardening, creating stained glass, and making memories at the family hunting camp in Hillman.

A loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother, he will be greatly missed by his wife, Linda, children, Kristie Jackson, Ryan (Eriel) Connon, grandson, Parker, brother, Les (Carolyn) Connon, and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation will take place at the Bannan Funeral Home on Thursday from 2-8 p.m. with a parish prayer service at 7 p.m. Visitation will continue at St. Anne Church of All Saints Parish on Friday from 5 p.m. until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 6 p.m. with the Rev. Joseph Muszkiewicz officiating.

Interment: Holy Cross Cemetery

If you would like to honor Ken’s giving spirit, donations may be made to Kiwanis Club of Alpena Flag Project or Michigan Special Olympics.