Kenneth Duane Fought, 84, of Holland Michigan, passed away on June 21, 2024, in Holland Michigan.
Ken was born in Holland to Leonard and Rolene Fought on July 11, 1939. He graduated from Holland High School in 1957. Then Ken served our country in the United States Army stationed in Frankfort Germany. He worked as an Environmental Device Tester for Thermatron for 45. Throughout his life he cherished spending time with family and friends. He also enjoyed learning about technology, watching sports, tinkering around the house, jogging, biking, camping,riding motorcycles, and sailing.
Ken also dedicated a big part of his life to being a firefighter. He began as a fireman in Holland Township and then served the majority of his time in the Park Township Fire Department totaling 39 years, including 14 years as the Park Township Fire Chief. Chief Fought ushered in a period of modernization of the equipment used and added training programs to enhance skills needed for serving as a firefighter. He also expanded the department with two new fire stations. Chief Fought was also active in many local, regional, and state organizations including the Ottawa County Fire Chiefs Association, the Western Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs, Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs, and the International Association of Fire Chiefs. He continued being a part of the firefighting family after retiring,including weekly breakfasts, which he absolutely loved to do.
Ken was incredibly humble and caring, first as a loving son, then when he became a husband, father, and friend. He always thought of others first, which meant so much to those around him. He made people feel special and never wanted the attention on himself, which is why we want to truly celebrate and honor him now. He tried to live each day to the fullest using the motto “Happiness is not a destination. It is a way of life”. He touched so many people with his gracious kindness and we all miss him tremendously.
Ken is survived by the love of his life for 60 plus years, Barb, his son Brian (Julie), his daughter Angela (Shannon Dizmang), 3 grandchildren, Hailey (Cody), Noah, and Abigail. He is also survived by his sister, Marg Kamps, in-laws Pat Fought, Jack (Marge) Faber, Jeane (Jerry) Pitcher, and many nieces, nephews,cousins, and great nieces and nephews.
And we cannot end without mentioning that we knew where he was every Tuesday afternoon and Friday morning…coffee with the boys!
Visitation will take place on Thursday, June 27 from 4-7pm with “Chiefs Last Ride” to take place at 7:15pm at Dykstra Funeral Home – Northwood Chapel, 295 Douglas Ave. Holland. A private burial of his ashes will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Holland Alano Association, 201 E 39th St, Holland, MI 49423, an organization Ken and Barb both love dearly. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the Alano Club and friends.
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