Kenneth R. "Big Ken" Crocker's Obituary
Kenneth R. “Big Ken” Crocker, age 71, passed away Monday, February 5, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 8, 1953, to Kenneth and Blanche “Pat” (Bucher) Crocker in Muskegon, MI and has remained a lifelong resident. He attended Grand Valley State University, where he studied Political Science. On May 2, 1975, he married his first love, Kelly Hall in Norton Shores. Together they cherished 48 years full of love and laughter. Ken dedicated numerous years working as a machinist at L3 Combat Propulsion Systems, before retiring in 2019. His lifelong career and passion revolved around his gifted talents as a carpenter. He was an integral part of the city of Norton Shores Parks and Recreation Department. Ken’s creative, determined and amazing skill set allowed them to be the best in the State of Michigan. He spent endless days at Lake Harbor Park designing, fixing and crafting the walkways and decking. Ken designed and built the roller rink and frisbee golf course at Ross Park. He also assisted in the creation of Hidden Cove, Black Lake Parks and the numerous small details that each park holds. He truly enjoyed teaching his knowledge of building and fixing things and earned his nickname of “MacGyver” for his abilities. Ken was the most loyal and dedicated employee Norton Shores has ever had over the last 45 years. He dedicated his life to creating staples in his community that his family can cherish for years to come. He will be honored with a memorial set in the spring at Lake Harbor Park. Ken also enjoyed hockey and he helped develop the Norton Shores Ice Hockey program into the well-oiled machine it is today. He was an avid outdoorsman enjoying hunting and fishing. He was a huge football fan and always rooted for his Detroit Lions! Above all, he loved spending time with his family up at his cottage on Ford Lake, his home away from home, where he was always building something at the cottage. Ken will be remembered as a loving husband, wonderful father, amazing grandpa and dear friend to many. He was the person you could always turn to for advice or count on during the toughest of days. Those who knew him well, saw this quiet man could be very funny. Ken’s hardworking and caring spirit will be truly missed by so many. He is survived by his loving wife, Kelly Crocker; three children, Kimberly (John) Brusk, Korrie (Nick) Halmond and Kenneth Vernon Crocker; six grandchildren, Alex, Paige, Olivia, Porter, Piper and Hudson; and brother-in-law, Dave Taylor. He was preceded in death by his parents; and sister, Shirley Crocker-Taylor. A Celebration of Big Ken’s Life will be held at 6:00 PM on Thursday, March 14. 2024, at Fricano’s Muskegon Lake, 1050 W. Western Ave. Suite 200, Muskegon, MI 49441 in the event room. Ken did not like to dress up, causal attire, blue jeans are welcomed. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his honor can be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at http://www.sytsemafh.com.
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