Kenneth Frabel

Kenneth Lee Frabel was born September 24, 1947, in Cambridge, Ohio. He died peacefully on January 7, 2023, in his own home in Crosslake, MN, at the age of 75.

Ken was preceded in death by his mother, Reba Vcelka (nee Meighen); father, Robert “Jake” Kirkman; stepfather, Roy Frabel; and half-brother, James “Skeeter” Frabel.

Ken is survived by his daughter, Stacy Henkemeyer (James); son, Brian Frabel (Dawn); former wife, Nancy Frabel; grandchildren, Joshua Lattery, Samuel Frabel, and Julianna Frabel; great grandchildren, Lucas Lattery-Quast and Abel Joel; half siblings: Misty Riggs (Brian), Bob Kirkman (Ruth Ann), John Kirkman, Roy “Randy” Frabel, and Larry Perkins (Sue); aunt, Dorothy “Dot” Ames; and sister-in-law, Janie Frabel.

Ken proudly served in the US Navy from 1966-1968, during the Vietnam War as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate. He received the following recognitions: National Defense Service Metal, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal with Two Bronze Stars, and Republic of South Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device. Ken worked as a Calling Clerk for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad for nearly 40 years.

Ken was a member of Open Door Community Church in Breezy Point, MN. He developed a deep friendship with Pastor Jim Rogers, as well as deepened his faith in Our Lord and Savior. Ken enjoyed fishing, bowling, golfing, watching football and baseball, and going to the Casinos. He cherished all the time spent with his family. He never lost his sense of humor.

Ken was an amazing father, grandfather, great-grandfather, husband, and brother.  He will be missed by many. He cashed in his chips and is now in the big casino in the sky. He won the jackpot. He is with Jesus!

Ken’s family would especially like to show gratitude for the many health care professionals and caregivers that not only provided care to Ken, but showed him dignity, love and compassion.  Thank you especially to the teams at ProMedica Hospice, Whitefish at the Lakes, the VA, and Kline Funeral Home.

Services will be 11 AM on Friday, January 20, at Kline Funeral Home, Pequot Lakes, with visitation one hour prior. Light refreshments will be served after the service, followed by a graveside service with military honors at 2 PM at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, Camp Ripley. A time of celebration at Main Gate Bar & Grill, 15401 Hwy. 115, Little Falls, will follow the graveside service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Ken’s honor are given to ProMedica Hospice, 7658 Design Road, Baxter, MN 56425.