Kenneth R. Tinsley's Obituary
KENNETH R. TINSLEY
December 16, 1930 – August 1st, 2015
Passed away peacefully surrounded by those who loved him.
Ken lived a very full life. He cherished his wife Sun Ja, his siblings, his children and their families, his friends and his dog Buddie. He loved to go fishing with everyone… the more the merrier, and came alive when he entertained. He was busy all the time, helping out when and wherever he could. He really enjoyed getting into a can of paint. He was handy at so many things and loved participating in scouting projects and events and offered much of his time and expertise. He loved to watch the grand-babies (with Sun Ja) and tell them about the golden rule. He was a man of high expectations and ethics and his family respected him and enjoyed his softening of those edges as he became a more tender loving parent and grandpa. He and Sun Ja spent time with each family, treating them to breakfast on their very own special Sunday. As the grand-kids grew they would have their own time with them. It was thoughtful, chaotic and perfect.
Ken was a war veteran. He joined the Air Force near the end of the Korean War and later flew many missions to Vietnam as a flight engineer. This job that he loved so much took him all over the world, and he chose to retire after 26 years to call Washington his home. He started a second career as a customer service coordinator and loved doing inspections of planes, retiring after 12 years from the Boeing Company. The friends he made before, during and after have lasted a lifetime.
Ken was a generous man. He offered everything that he had – his time, experience, knowledge, wisdom, apologies, love and humanness. He gave it all.
Ken is survived by his loving wife Sun Ja, his children Valerie Enger (David), Mark (Bonnie), Bruce (Darci), Paul (Cindy), Tina Harshfield (Rick), Adam Thiry (Sue), Deann Schoeler (Greg), 12 grand-kids, and 9 great grand-kids. In Kentucky his sister Ann Dant (Hank), brothers Steve (Darlene), Wendell (Leslie) and many nephews and nieces. His is preceded in death by his parents, a brother Joe and an infant son.
Ken was an active member of the Life Center. He found comfort and comradery there and was thrilled to share as many of their programs and events as he could with all of us. The Lord touched his heart freeing him to experience such joy and contentment, so
in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to:
Life Center
“LC Kids Children’s Ministries”
1717 S Union Ave
Tacoma, WA 98405
Please leave condolences and memories to the tribute wall.
What’s your fondest memory of Kenneth?
What’s a lesson you learned from Kenneth?
Share a story where Kenneth's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Kenneth you’ll never forget.
How did Kenneth make you smile?
