Kenneth L. Ranum, 79, died peacefully on September 9, 2010 at his home in Thief River Falls, MN surrounded by his loving family.

Funeral service will be 11 AM, Monday, September 13, 2010 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Thief River Falls, MN with Rev. John Volker, Ph.D. officiating. Burial will be in Rindal Cemetery, New Solum Township, Marshall County, MN.

Visitation will be 5-8 PM Sunday, September 12, 2010 at Johnson Funeral Service, Thief River Falls, MN with a Prayer Service at 7 PM. Visitation will also be one hour prior to the service at the church.

Kenneth Leroy Ranum was born June 27, 1931 in Marshall County, to Carl and Ada (Jacobson) Ranum. He was baptized August 2, 1931 and confirmed May 25, 1947 at Trinity Lutheran Church, Thief River Falls, MN. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Thief River Falls in 1948 and graduated from the Area Vocational School in 1951.

Kenneth served his country in the US Navy from August 1, 1951 to July 21, 1955. He served during the Korean Conflict on the USS Brush (DD-745) and the USS Hancock (CVA 19). He received the China Survival Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal.

Kenneth was married to Delores Heaton and to this union 5 children were born. He was united in marriage to Mary Jane Rachels in 1974. The couple made their home in Fergus Falls, MN. Ken worked as an electrician in the local Tri-state Area from 1955-1970. He also worked as a maintenance electrician at Fergus Falls State Hospital from 1970-1987. He served as the physical plant director from 1987-1994. In 1994 he retired to start a life of travel with his wife. In 1996 they moved to Thief River Falls.

Growing up in rural Thief River Falls, Ken had his hands full with farming and helping the family. After his years of military service, he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his family and friends. During this time he was a mentor to many, some may not have found his humor and expertise as enlightening as others. He had a love of gardening and yard care. Papa was loved and respected by all, and has touched many lives.

Ken was a member of the VFW Post 2793, American Legion, Elks Club and Trinity Lutheran Church in Thief River Falls.

Survived by his wife Mary Jane Ranum, 5 children: Debra (Bill Weise) Ranum, Gallatin, TN; Janet Koskela, Hallock, MN, Maureen (Rod) Ranum, Virginia, MN; Charlotte (Al Chosa) Rolling, Virginia, MN; Paula Ranum, Virginia, MN; 4 step children: Scott (Cindy) Rachels, Fergus Falls, MN; Todd (Leah) Rachels, Fergus Falls, MN; Andrea (Charles) Schreifels, Sauk Rapids, MN; Michele (Darryl) Nicholls, Pelican Rapids, MN; 16 grandchildren, 3 great granddaughters, sister Olive Rondorf, Thief River Falls, MN; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents; 5 brothers, Clifford Jorde, Olaf Jorde, Leonard Jorde, Clarence Jorde, and Dale Ranum; sister, Clara Mae Swanson; son-in-law, Bob Koskela; and beloved friend, Wally Heaton.

Special thanks to Hospice & Al Chosa for allowing Ken to spend his last day at home.

PIANIST: Dee Wollenzein
SPECIAL MUSIC: Diane Johnson
SELECTIONS: One Day At A Time & Just A Closer Walk With Thee
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS: Eternal Father Strong To Save # 467 & O God Our Help In Ages Past #320
CASKETBEARERS: Bill Koskela, John Koskela, Mike Ranum, David Ranum, Nick Ranum, Josh Rachels, Brian Ranum
CROSS BEARER: Lee Johnson
MILITARY HONORS: American Legion Eklund-Holmstrom Post #117; VFW Post #2793