Kenneth Ayers

Kenneth George Frederick “KG” Ayers, 89, of Albert Lea, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2024, at his home with his family by his side.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00PM on Friday, December 27, 2024, at Grace Lutheran Church in Albert Lea, with a visitation beginning one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be in Hillcrest Cemetery in Albert Lea.

Born on October 19, 1935, in Wells, MN, he was the cherished son of the late Hubert and Alice (Prange) Ayers. Kenneth’s life was one marked by dedication to both his family and community. A proud graduate of Wells High School, Kenneth began a long and rewarding career with Wilson Foods, dedicating nearly 34 years of his life to the company. 

In 1954, Kenneth married Florence “Flossie” Braun. Together they had four children: Georgia, Curtis, Phyllis, and Laura. They later divorced. On July 30, 1963, Kenneth married Janet (Miller) Ayers, with whom he shared a profound bond until her passing in 2010. Kenny spent the last 14 years of his life with his beloved fiancée, Gwen Stallkamp. 

Along with his fiancée, Gwen, Kenneth remained an active member of his community, dedicating himself to various organizations, Moose Lodge #1703, Elks Club, Oak Grove Gun Club, the NRA, and Fountain Lake Sportsman Club. Kenny was especially involved in the Albert Lea Eagles Club FOE 2258. Kenny won many awards over the years with the Eagles. He was past president, Minnesota Father of the Year recipient, and was a part of the district, state, and national award-winning Ritual Team, and served as district Treasurer. 

He found solace and strength at Grace Lutheran Church, where he attended services regularly. His volunteering efforts with the former Freeborn County Habitat for Humanity illustrated his belief in giving back and making a difference in the lives of others.

In his free time, Kenneth found joy in a variety of pursuits. He was an avid fisherman, enjoyed taking photographs, loved snowmobiling, and had a passion for gardening and reading. Kenneth’s zest for life was evident and left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Those left to cherish Kenneth’s memory include his fiancée, Gwen Stallkamp; children, Georgia (Barry) Cordingly, Curtis (Korrine) Ayers, Phyllis (Tim) Hoyt, and Laura Ayers; step-daughter, Connie (Larry) Jacobson; 14 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; six great-great grandchildren; siblings, Manville (Barbara) Ayers, Clarence (Janice) Ayers, Joyce Heidtman, and Kathryn Ayers; numerous nieces and nephews; many extended family members; and countless friends.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Alice Ayers; his high school sweetheart and the mother of his children, Florence (Braun) Grunewald; his wife, Janet (Miller) Ayers; parents-in-law, Chris and Ellis Miller; a step-daughter, Bonnie (Jerry) Bolinger; a brother-in-law, Tim Heidtman; and two grandsons, Justin McSorley and Karl Jacobson.