Kenneth J. Schwentner, 93, a resident of Elk Haven Nursing Home and formerly of 288 Brandy Camp Circle, Ridgway, passed away Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Elk Haven.

He was born April 11, 1931, in St. Marys, son of the late Joseph and Irene Herbstritt Schwentner.  He was a lifelong resident of the area and was a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1950.  He worked in retail most of his life and retired from Burke’s Home Center in 1993.

On May 16, 1953, in Holy Cross Church in Brandy Camp, Ken married the late Helen F. Kline, who preceded him in death on May 13, 2009. 

Ken is survived by his daughter, Karen Schwentner (David Nellis) of Port Matilda; two sons, Melvin Schwentner (Vicki Nelson) of DuBois and Alan Schwentner (Cheryl)  of St. Marys; five grandchildren: John Schwentner (Madonna), Travis Schwentner (Andrea), Ashley Moyer (Jacob), Shanna Schwentner (Trent), and Dessie Zeek (Jeremiah); six great-grandchildren; and a sister, Noreen Olewnick (Ted) of St. Marys.

In addition to his loving wife and parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Doris Clark; a daughter-in-law, Brenda Schwentner; and his partner of several years, Beverly Bennett.

Kenny, as people affectionately referred to him, loved fly fishing, spending time with family, and watching history on television. He was an active foster parent for many years with his wife, Helen, taking care of over 30 children through the years. He volunteered at the local food bank and was an avid church goer. Kenny was known for being kind, humble, and friendly, and would strike up a conversation with anyone.

A funeral service for Ken will be held in the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at 11:00AM with Pastor Missy Smith, celebrating.  Burial will be in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be held in the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home on Tuesday, July 23, 2024 from 10:00AM until the time of service.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the Elk Having Nursing Home Activities Fund, 785 Johnsonburg Road, St. Marys, PA 15857 or to Elk County Children and Youth Advisory Board, 300 Center Street, PO Box 448, Ridgway, PA 15853.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.  Online condolences may be offered at www.lynch-radkowski.com