January 18, 1940 – May 9, 2023
Rev. Kenneth Ivan Kline passed away peacefully at home on May 9th, after a long battle with cancer. His life journey began on January 18, 1940, born to parents Glen & Dorothy Kline.
He attended Mattawan High School pursuing sports, band and FFA. He met the love of his life, Madelyn Klobucher, during his time in Mattawan. After graduation in 1958, he attended Michigan State University earning a degree in Agricultural Engineering. He married Madelyn, on June 27, 1959. Kenneth & Madelyn raised their family while farming in Schoolcraft, MI for over 15 years.
During this time, He knew in his heart, that God was calling him to serve in full-time ministry. He attended seminary at Garrett Theological Seminary and began his ministry. This ministry led him to Evart, MI where he served many years as a circuit preacher to multiple United Methodist congregations. He also served as a minister to Marcellus & Wakely United Methodist churches in Marcellus, MI. After his retirement, Ken & Madelyn purchased New Life Campground and Warren Dunes Motel in Sawyer, MI. They owned this business for many years.
Ken had many passions in life. He loved spending time in Arizona, exploring the desert and marveling in God’s creation in the backcountry. He enjoyed reading the bible, attending church and fellowshipping with his friends. He created a lifetime of memories for his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He had many hobbies, which included riding motorcycles, stained glass art, woodworking, gardening, playing cards and traveling. Ken was a warrior at heart, living his life to the fullest and remembering all the blessings that God had bestowed on him.
Ken is survived by his wife Madelyn of 63 years. His children John Kline, Kelli Ryskamp, Kimberly Kline, Jeffery Kline, and Koreen Vavra. He leaves behind 15 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren and his three sisters, Sandy Conroy, Patricia Loveland and Vicki Matunas. He is proceeded by death by his sister Glenadine Hodgson and his parents Dorothy and Glen Kline.
We all will miss him deeply and know that his life of dedication to the Lord, was seen and felt by all that loved him. We love you, Kenny, Dad, and Poppy! We are so grateful for the life that God created for all of us through your sacrifices. Thank you for your guidance, wisdom and love. As Ken used to say “It is what it is”. Amen? AMEN!
In lieu of flowers, please donate to Gideons International: https://www.gideons.org/donate
Please join us for a memorial service celebrating the life of Kenneth Kline
June 17 @11:00 a.m. (luncheon to follow service) at Sawyer Highlands Church, 13100 Red Arrow Hwy, Sawyer, MI 49125.
*Sears UMC 1977 – 1986, Brooks Corners UMC 1977 – 1986, Oshtemo UMC 1982-1987.
Last Updated on May 23, 2023