Kenneth Albert Priest, 44, of Traverse City, passed away on June 13, 2023 after a 6-month battle with leukemia. He took it head on and fought until the end!
Ken was born on October 25, 1978 to Shirley Priest (Plamondon) and the late LaVerne Priest in Traverse City, one of 5 children. From a young age he was drawn to the outdoors and loved nature. As a young boy he wanted to be a farmer and was eager to work on his family's cherry farm, Rolling Valley Farm. He was a true "cherry kid". He had a natural ability for figuring out how things worked and was able to repair anything in need of fixing from mechanical to household projects. This ability turned into a business doing construction, demolitions and property cleanouts, all of which he loved. He was truly a "Jack of all Trades". He appreciated being self-employed, being able to travel around Michigan for his work and exploring the surrounding area to see new and beautiful things. He enjoyed fishing, the 4th of July, Christmas, Halloween and the chance to make people laugh. He will be missed for his sense of humor, his giant smile and his heart of gold.
He is survived and missed dearly by his mom Shirley, his sisters; Jean, Jennifer and Magnolia, his brother Edward, his best friend Amanda and his beloved dog "Puppy". He is preceded in death by his dad LaVerne and infant daughter Isabella.
A funeral mass will take place on Friday June 23, 2023 at Immaculate Conception Church. Visitation at 10:00 with service to follow at 11:00.
Those wishing an expression of sympathy may wish to consider a contribution to Shirley Priest in Ken's honor by way of the Reynolds Jonkhoff Funeral Home.