Kenneth P. Rosenbusch's Obituary
Kenneth Paul Rosenbusch, Sr. Passed away peacefully at home on February 22, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on July 25, 1941, in Detroit, Michigan, Kenneth was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, whose life was rich in family, work, and a deep love for his community.
Ken married Joan Camille Miller of Amherst in 1961, where they raised three children. He was a proud 1959 graduate of Marion L. Steele High School and spent most of his life in Amherst. He dedicated 32 years of service to the Amherst Fire Department, retiring as Captain. He continued his commitment to his community by volunteering as a tour guide at the Amherst Historical Fire Museum.
Known for his entrepreneurial spirit, Ken was also a well-known barber, operating his shop on Milan Avenue for many years. After closing his shop in 1973, he worked as a chemical operator at B.F. Goodrich, where he retired in 1999, also serving as Fire Chief for the company’s fire department.
Ken enjoyed many trips across the U.S. and Canada with his beloved wife in their RV, as well as on his motorcycle. They spent many winters in their Florida home, creating lasting memories together.
Ken was a true renaissance man whose inventive nature and strong work ethic earned him the nickname “Mr. Fix-It.” He was always ready for a new challenge, from restoring their century-old home to assisting his children with their own home improvement projects. He was a passionate fisherman and hunter, and he took great pride in sharing the bounty of his harvest, whether it was smoked, cooked, or enjoyed fresh. He also loved gardening and taking care of his plants, preserving his harvest through canning and freezing. Ken’s culinary skills, especially in baking, earned him blue ribbons at the Lorain County Fair for his pies and breads.
Ken cherished his time in nature, whether hunting, fishing, or simply enjoying the beauty of the woods or in the lake on their boat, “the JoKeR”. Kelleys Island, his family’s favorite summer getaway, was a special place where they celebrated the joys of nature, family, and togetherness.
A brave cancer survivor, Ken was known for his vibrant personality and love for socializing, making an impact on all who knew him. His devotion to his family was unparalleled, and he will be deeply missed by his loved ones, who felt his presence in everything he did. His wit, energy, and humor will leave a lasting void in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Ken is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Joan Rosenbusch; daughter, Paula Klapak (Ed) of Macedonia, Ohio; son Kenneth, Jr. (Laura) of Ramona, California; son Larry (Jennifer) of Las Vegas, Nevada; one grandson, Paul Rosenbusch; five granddaughters, Elizabeth Kattleman (Jessie), Karen Riedler (Cory), Kristin Klapak (Kristi Haynes), Katelyn Thompson (Tyler) and Sabrina Rosenbusch; and his great-grandchildren, Luna and Otto Riedler, Cooper and Miles Thompson. He also leaves behind his sister, Doris Jean (Kenneth) Williams, along with his extended Rosenbusch and Miller families across several states. A special thank you to his devoted caregiver, companion, and friend, Sandy Hall.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer Rosenbusch (1974) and Doris Rosenbusch (nee Barnett, 1972).
The family will receive friends on Saturday, March 1st, 2025 from 11:00 am until 1:00 pm for a celebration of Ken’s life at Dovin and Reber Jones Funeral Home, 1110 Cooper Foster Park Rd, Amherst, Ohio. Beginning at 1:00 pm, the family invites those would like to do so, share a light-hearted special memory or thought about Ken. To send an online condolence, please visit www.dovinreberjones.com.
Memorial contributions may be made in his name to the Alzheimer’s Association.
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