Obituary of Kenneth Robert Spencer

Kenneth Robert Spencer, 77, set sail to explore the universe on March 22, 2024 with his compass, knife, field notebook, wooden pencil and a glass of Eagle Rare. Ken was born on November 8, 1946. He was predeceased by his parents David and Dorothy Spencer, his brother Ray, sister Susan and sister Alice. Ken is survived by his devoted wife, Marilyn Kuntz-Spencer, his brother John, Paul, and sister Marie, by his three children; Ryan and Jourdan Spencer, Kyle Spencer, and Amy (Spencer) Wikman, and by his two step-children; Stephen and Kristin Kuntz, and Tracy and Frank Esposito.  In addition to many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, Grandpa or “KenPa” is survived by 7 grandchildren; Sophie, Max and Mabel Spencer, Nick, Amanda and Katie Esposito, and Matthew Kuntz. 

Fond memories of Ken's upbringing in Vestal, NY, resonate with his passion for camping, shared with his father, brothers, and friends. This love for the outdoors remained a constant throughout his life. He earned his Engineering Degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), graduating with honors prior to working for IBM and moving to New Jersey. A resident of Denville for over 40 years, he was a member of the Best of Broadway Lip Sync Group, raising money for the Joey Bella Fund; Chairman and Volunteer of St. Clare's Harvest Festival for many years, a basketball, baseball and soccer coach for his children and served on the Morris County Republican Committee.  

Ken felt complete with the addition of his Bonus Family. He traveled the world with Marliyn, both of them working for Haverly Systems until their retirement. Joining a hiking club, he was able to explore the natural beauty in the US and Canada. In his later years, he bought a camper and joined the “Skyland Drifters”, camping around the tri-state area, all the while also continuing to backpack camp with his brothers, friends and children in the Adirondacks and Catskills. Ken's profound love for his family and nature defined his character. Always willing to lend a listening ear or extend a helping hand, Ken's curiosity, creativity, and infectious laughter endeared him to all who knew him. 

As a proud father, grandfather, husband, brother, and friend, Ken expressed his love through his craftsmanship, whether crafting a flower box, personalized wooden walking stick, or whittled pickle. His children and grandchildren will carry on his legacy, continuing the tradition of whittling to honor his memory.

Memorial services honoring Ken's life will be held on Saturday March 30th, 2024 from 1:00PM - 4:00PM with a service at 3:00PM at Norman Dean Home for Services, Inc. 16 Righter Ave, Denville NJ 07834. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Denville Beautification Committee or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation are appreciated by way of inmemof.org. All are welcome to come and celebrate the life of this incredible man! Please leave a condolence, light a candle, and share your favorite memory of Ken here to continue to let his radiance shine.