Kenneth M. Shandrow's Obituary
On August 6, 2025, our family lost our patriarch. Kenneth Merrit Shandrow, Sr., born in Tacoma on January 27, 1942 passed away at the age of 83 at home in Tacoma, WA.
Ken was an adventurer in life and was not afraid to conquer anything new; he quickly became an expert at whatever he set his mind to. He always said if you are going to do something, don’t do it half--, well, you know. Ken was all-in on many pursuits from car racing, motocross, restoring classic cars, wood working, archery, and competitive marksmanship, to flying an ultralight aircraft (that he built himself). You could always find him in the garage tinkering away on one project or other. If he needed something, he would often build or restore it himself.
He also had a love of animals that he passed along to his family, and leaves behind his beloved blue & gold macaws and parrot. Professionally, Ken worked as a glazier, and proudly owned and operated SOS Glass for many years. He also served his country in the US Air Force and was honorably discharged in 1960.
Later in life, Ken spent much of his free time at his recreational property on the Deschutes River—a place he created for family to gather and for him to relax.
Family was important to Ken. He leaves behind his wife Linda, of 56 years and their five children: Kerri McNown (and husband Mark), Kenneth (Kenny) Shandrow, Jr. (and wife Debbie), Kelly Shandrow, Karen Purcell (and husband Jeremy), and the baby of the family, Kyle Shandrow.
Ken was a proud grandfather to Jeff Shandrow (and wife Melissa), Ben Shandrow, Robert Shandrow, Lauren Hickey (and husband Killian), Alek Purcell (and wife Amaya), Kiana Gallup, and Andrea Shandrow--and great-grandfather to Kenneth Shandrow, III.
Ken is also survived by his younger brother Tom Shandrow, (and wife Pat), nephew Eric Shandrow and family, niece Stacie Accetturo and family, and youngest brother Lance LaMont and family—along with many other extended family members who may not be named here, but who also held a special place in his life.
Ken will be joined in heaven by his first wife, Roberta Shandrow (Costi), the mother of Kerri, Kenny Jr., and Kelly; his mother Florence LaMont and stepfather Dewey LaMont; his sister Lorlei Patrick; his father Benjamin Shandrow; brothers-in-law Rick and Randy Costi; and mothers-in-law Prima (Patty) Costi and Frieda Fournier. He’ll also be welcomed by many other family members and friends who held a special place in his heart.
Rest in Peace, 37, you are loved and will be missed by those who have been left behind. Linda will especially miss the car rides you shared through the decades and your mutual love of music.
A Celebration of Life is being planned and will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pierce County Humane Society. If you have stories or memories of Ken to share, we encourage you to leave a message for the family.
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