Kenneth N. “Big Kenny” McGregor, Sr.
December 25, 2012
Kenneth “Big Kenny” McGregor, 76, went home to be with the Lord on December 25, 2012, at his home, laying back in his recliner. Kenny was born in Des Moines on January 25, 1936, to Everdell and Thomas McGregor. In his adolescence he had a knack for anything mechanical, and earned his first experience tearing things apart at his grandpa’s place. He received his education in the Des Moines Public School system, and later the United States Air Force, where he served for three years and seven months as an aircraft mechanic for jet fighters.
After the military, he came home and married the love of his life, Kathryn, and from that union they had seven sons and three daughters, and of course his wife’s first son, Jimmy, Jr., whom he dearly loved and raised as his own.
In 1976, Kenneth and his wife met Reverend Jeremiah Reed and they repented and were baptized in Jesus name and filled with the Holy Ghost. From that point on, Kenneth’s mission became helping in the church in any way that he could. He was a deacon, baptizer, Sunday school teacher, did carpentry for the church buildings, security, and was on the board during his tenure. He loved to be a help to the pastor and would do anything that was requested of him.
Kenny was the proprietor of Ken’s Trash Removal Service, and from that he branched off and formed Brother’s Two Automotive Services which he successfully operated with his brother and sons. He managed some government contracts and was the chief officer at Saylorville Lake and handled maintenance there. He also did contractual work at Red Rock Lake and Stockton Lake through the Army Corp of Engineers for four years. In 1983, he started working with youth at Iowa Junior Careers, which merged into the United Youth Careers, and he successfully ran that from 1984 until 2009. During those years he touched the lives of thousands of youth, and he only stepped away when his health took a turn for the worst. His favorite saying was, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding.” Our father was a work horse, so we know the Lord allowed him to get down on his health because he needed to come spend a few years with his own family who desperately needed him.
Kenneth leaves to mourn his memory, daughters, Anna (Harvey Sr.) Ricks, Lillie (Antonio) Ward, and Marjorie Watson; sons, Kenneth Jr., Everett Sr., Kevin (Katrina), Robert Sr., Terry Sr. (Kimberly) and Jermaine; 32 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren; and foster children, Lavern Jr. and Yvonne Campbell.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Kathryn; sons, James F. Ewing Jr. and George David Lee McGregor; both of his parents; a sister; and his first grandchild, Harvey Lee Ricks Jr.
Visitation will begin at 2 p.m. followed by a funeral service at 4 p.m. Sunday, December 30, 2012, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street. Kenneth will be held laid to rest at Glendale Cemetery next to his wife Kathryn in the Veterans section.
Condolences may be expressed at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Lola Dee Holmes
12/28/2012
Even over the great distance apart, you will always be known to me as 'Dad.' It very much saddens me to know I won't be able to come by and see you when I'm in Iowa, but I also know the LORD knows what's best. I've learned a lot from you and carry it with me even today. If a man or woman don't work, they don't eat. You gave me my 1st job, taught me how to work for myself, be my own boss, and treat other's fair. Thanks Dad for instilling those values, thanks for the education, thanks for the talks, thanks for the love. You will truly be missed. Until the LORD brings us together again, rest well. To the 'Family' - Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. [Matthew 5:4] I love you still!
Sierra Ricks
12/28/2012
I just wanna say that my grandpa was one of the most caring people that I know, and he has always been there for his grandchildren, and he always tried his best to give and do for us whenever he could in any way shape or form, and I know that he will be missed -Love sierra
Anna Ricks
12/28/2012
Dad, I will always remember all of our shopping trips that took place in that 15 passenger van with you and mom. As I look around me all I can see is all of your beautiful works of labour. You were a jack of all trades. I will miss being able to call you when I need something repaired. I thank God that he allowed me to have you for my wonderful father for 51 years and 1 day. I will always remember one of your favorite songs "One day at a time sweet Jesus." With love from your eldest daughter Anna
Carolyn Fine
12/27/2012
I am sorry for your loss, may you find comfort in God our father. He no longer have to suffer this pain, and is in a much better place. My prayers and love are here for you.
Marjorie Watson
12/27/2012
Dad, you definately have earned the title "The World's Greatest Father!" You were always there for me and the rest of the family. I will miss you, but am at peace because you no longer have to suffer. Love, Margie
Nia Evans Gosch
12/27/2012
Family, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I am saddened by the loss of a good man. I may not be with you but my spirit always ever present. Much love! - Connie's daughter
Traci Kennedy
12/27/2012
Uncle Kenny you will be so missed by so many loved ones. I feel blessed to have had you as my uncle and in my life and the lives of my children, who talked about your generous heart immediately when I told them of your passing. Prayers are going out to all of my cousins in your time of sadness. I love you all and I'm here for you!
Lillie Ward
12/27/2012
Well dad you fought the good fight... You had been so physically tired and fighting all your ailments but kept hanging in there for all of us. You survived your prostate cancer for 12 1/2 years and on Christmas Eve you talked to our pastor and a couple saints came by and prayed with you and the Lord was preparing you for your transition. On Christmas Day you gave us the greatest gift and went on to be with our Lord where you deserve to be. You was a great, loving, kind, generous, selfless, wonderful man and I only hope the men of this family follow in your stead. Until we meet again, I love you dad.