December 27, 1957 - January 05, 2021
Kenneth "Ken" Assmus Obituary
It is with great sadness that the Assmus family announces the death of Kenneth ?Ken? Charles Assmus. He passed away on January 5, 2021, from complications with Covid-19 virus. His greatest desire was to recover and return home to his family. He reunited with his son, Jonathan David Assmus, who has been in heaven since June 17, 2009.
Ken was born December 27, 1957, in Durango, Colorado to parents Charles and Donzella Assmus. He had a happy childhood with siblings Gregory (Jan) Assmus, Judy (Art) Perez, Janet (Mike) Kupcho, and Richard (Robin) Assmus. Great times were had playing baseball and soccer, camper?s club, rock hounding and lapidary club, visiting the family farm in South Dakota, and adventures with his pet raccoon.
Ken lived in Arvada, Colorado most of his growing up years and attended Shrine of St. Anne?s School. He graduated from Arvada High School and later pursued an Associate?s Degree in drafting and graphic specialties. He felt fortunate that he could provide for his family while working in the mining industry for over 40 years. It was truly a passion he had and he shared his love of rocks and minerals doing outreach programs for the Northwest Natural Resources Institute, dedicated to educating teachers and students about the importance of natural resources in their daily lives.
The power of a wink brought Ken to the love of his life and he married Tracy Lynn Jacobson on June 6, 1980. Their marriage was solemnized in the Manti Temple. Ken was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and he served in many capacities, his favorites being a Bishopric Member and Young Men?s President. He served in the Scouting program over 40 years. He loved the youth and sharing the wonders of the world with them.
The union of Tracy and Ken brought them the blessings of 4 children: Kenny (Jerah) Assmus, Jeremy (McKensie) Assmus, Jonathan Assmus, and Katelyn (Brad) Duffy. Through their marriage they lived in Nevada, Missouri, Colorado, and Washington. Spokane has been their home for 25 years. Family time consisted of hunting, fishing, sporting events, and dance competitions. He welcomed exchange students: Khuyag from Mongolia and Thomas from Germany - and considered them his sons!
One of Ken?s greatest joys was becoming a ?Papa? and he lived for spending time with his 8 grandchildren: Quinn, Zoey, Aubrey, Layton, Nolan, Stockton, Jordyn, and Jaycee. He now has the blessing of preparing his 9th grand-child, Remi, to meet our family.
Ken and Tracy enjoyed traveling to see God?s creations. He often carried a camera and became known as the ?Hummingbird Whisperer? as he became proficient in calling them in to get the perfect picture. They also shared the love of sports, being avid Gonzaga Bulldog fans and also golf fanatics as they followed his niece and nephew?s golfing careers.
Ken and Tracy celebrated their 40th anniversary in June surrounded by their favorite things - family and adventure. We are grateful for forever families and will look forward to our eternal reunion.
In lieu of flowers we know that Ken would be pleased if your donations went to help Rudeen Ranch - an establishment where he participated in capturing, banding, and releasing hummingbirds for researching their growth and migration patterns. For more information on their mission see website: hummingbirdroundup.com
Donations can be received through Venmo account: @Kenneth-Assmus or mailed to the Assmus family directly.
Keep his love for hummingbirds alive and honor him in this special way.