OBITUARY: Ken Wad Eddy

Ken Wade Eddy, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2024, in Alpharetta, GA, surrounded by his loving family. He was 79 years old.

Born on December 10, 1944, in Staten Island, NY, to Melvin and Alice Eddy, Ken spent his formative years in Toppenish, Washington, where he graduated from Toppenish High School in 1963. He went on to attend Yakima Valley Community College from 1963 to 1965 before joining the U.S. Navy.

Ken proudly served his country as an Illustrator Draftsman Second Class (DM2) in the U.S. Navy from 1965 to 1969.

Following his military service, Ken embarked on a long and fulfilling career with the Oregon Department of Transportation, where he worked as a Highway Engineer and Project Manager from 1970 until his retirement in 2002. He also earned his Professional Land Surveyor certification in 1985.

Ken married the love of his life, Kay Snyder, on July 15, 1965. Together, they built a beautiful family, raising four children: Lisa (Eddy) Farquharson (Jon) of Oregon, Mike Eddy of Washington, Sara (Eddy) Olson (Brian) of Georgia, and Carrie (Eddy) Gegen (Adam) of Arizona. Ken was a proud and devoted grandfather to Quinn Farquharson (Rebecca), Wyla Olson, Keely Olson, Kierlynn Gegen, and Grady Gegen. He is also survived by his five sisters, Jeanne, Nan, Kay, Joy, and Wendy.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Alice Eddy, and his brothers Tim, Lewis, and Steve Eddy, as well as his parents-in-law, Harvey and Shirley Snyder.

Ken was a man of many talents and interests. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, passions he passed on to his children and grandchildren. Known for his tireless energy and constant activity, Ken was often referred to as the "Energizer Bunny" by his family. He was also a skilled handyman, always eager to help friends and family with projects and repairs.

Throughout his life, Ken was a devoted Christian, serving as a leader and mentor in his church community. He was a man of prayer, deeply committed to his faith and family. Ken's generous spirit and warm personality touched the lives of many, and he was always ready with a story or a joke to brighten someone's day.

Ken's love for his family was evident in everything he did. He was a devoted husband, a nurturing father, and a doting grandfather. His family fondly remembers his unwavering support, his wise counsel, and the joy he brought into their lives.

A celebration of Ken's life will be held on July 20 at Crossroads Church of the Nazarene in Cumming, Georgia. A memorial for family and friends will be held at the Zillah Church of the Nazarene in Zillah, Washington on August 17.

Ken will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his legacy of love, faith, and service will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.