Kenneth Admire Obituary

Kenneth Dale Admire, known affectionately as Ken to friends and family, passed away peacefully of natural causes on April 11, 2025, in Orange, California, having lived a full and rich life of 93 years. Born on August 8, 1931, in Benkelman, Nebraska, he grew up in the heartland, where his character was shaped by the values of hard work and devotion to family.
Following his High School graduation, Ken enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country honorably during the Korean Conflict aboard the USS Higbee, an experience that would instill in him a profound sense of duty and patriotism.
Ken's life was one marked by love at first sight when he met Terri Mac Emerson, the neighbor's babysitter. Their romance blossomed into a marriage that would last nearly seven decades, filled with mutual respect and unwavering partnership. They would have celebrated their 70 year wedding Anniversary this coming July 3rd.
Ken embarked on a 25-year career in the Aerospace industry. His work in missile design was not just a job but a passion, allowing him to travel the world and contribute to significant advancements in the field. He took great pride in his work and was respected by his colleagues for his dedication and innovative spirit.
Ken's zest for life extended far beyond his professional endeavors. He and Terri shared a love for travel, exploring the country in their motorhome and enjoying the beauty of America's landscapes. With a bronze tan and his questionably short shorts, Ken was a familiar and beloved figure at the river, where he and Terri spent many joyful days.
Ken was the "All American Dad" teaching his children how to throw a ball, bbq a good steak on the grill, how to change the oil in their cars FORDS of course, how to swim in the swimming pool in their backyard and again instilling in them the importance of family and service.
As a grandfather, Ken was nothing short of wonderful. He cherished all of his grandchildren, and he would tell you he had the honor of helping raise Kasey and Amanda as if they were his own. Summers spent up at Round Valley Lake Resort at the family campsite were filled with laughter, firewood splitting, crawdad hunting, and fishing-a testament to Ken's love for the outdoors and for sharing his passions with his loved ones. A passion that trickled over into being the skipper of a 2 story fishing boat for many years.
Ken was also a man of elegance and charm, with him and Terri often hosting dinner parties and dances during his tenure in the Aerospace industry. Their ability to entertain and bring people together was a hallmark of their social life, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
In his later years, Ken found joy in life's simple pleasures. Whether it was bouncing a great-grandchild on his knee while singing "bouncy bouncy" or preparing his famous "dad's ribs & dad's potatoes," he continued to nurture the bonds of family. His daily walks and meticulous checks around the house reflected his loving, generous, and selfless nature, always ensuring that everything was in order so no one would have to worry.
Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Terri Admire; his son, Kenneth and his wife, Mindi Admire; his daughter, Teresa Admire; his daughter-in-law, Diane Luker ; his four grandchildren, Kristina and her husband Lukasz Dabrowski, Kasey and her husband Jeff Ventura, Kenny Jr. and his wife Shallyn Admire, Amanda and her husband Tai Bui; and his eight great-grandchildren, Madison Leigh, Grace Michelle, Dominic Jeffrey, Parker Kenneth, Lyla Kay, Alexis, McKenlyn, and Kenneth IV. He was preceded in death by his son, Guy Admire, in 2017.
Kenneth Dale Admire's life was a testament to the enduring power of love, family, and service. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him but remembered always for the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.
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