Kenneth L. Halpin, known to most as Ken, or Kenny, age 74, died June 2, 2103.

“He crossed the valley to the other side,” his family said. “He is with Jesus. He is home.”

A family only graveside service was held on Wednesday, June 5, 2013. His family welcomes everyone to attend a memorial service honoring Kenny’s life at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 6, 2013, at the Christian Community Church, 3838 Bartlett Street.

Kenny was born March 27, 1939, in Massachusetts to Charles and Pamelia Halpin. He and his brother, Charlie, were raised and attended school in Massachusetts. Kenny entered the U.S. Air Force at a young age where he served as an atomic weapons specialist.

In 1964 Kenny and his wife, Marge, traveled from Massachusetts on an epic Abrahamic journey to Alaska with their eight children to begin a new life. Their first year was spent in Eagle River, followed by the remaining years on the homestead between Homer and Anchor Point, aka “the river bottom”.

Kenny worked as a carpenter for his first years in the state. He soon fell in love with commercial fishing and captained his own boats, the Lowan, the Shiloh and the Scepter, for many years. He loved the outdoors, and enjoyed many experiences of hunting and fishing with family and friends. He would also be seen in the summer
sitting by the riverbank reading his
Bible for hours.

Kenny recognized his need for God and dedicated his life to studying God’s word. For over 40 years Kenny had invested his time teaching, mentoring and serving at the Alaska Bible Institute. His heart was for the students. Along with being an instructor he was chairman of the disciplinary committee. He was also ABI’s dedicated maintenance person for a number of years and was a generous man, giving many hours to the physical operation of the buildings and properties.

In 1983, Kenny married Gail, whom he spent the remainder of his years with him on the homestead. During some of those years Kenny and Gail opened their home to Gail’s children and grandchildren, impacting their lives spiritually.

Kenny is survived by his children whom he treasured: Terry his favorite, Debby his favorite, Marie his favorite, Robert his favorite, Kenneth his favorite, Valerie his favorite, Vicki his favorite and Mark his favorite, along with their spouses and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is survived by his wife, Gail, her children and grandchildren. He is also survived by his close childhood friend, Laddie Dexter, of Massachusetts. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, brother and the mother of his eight children.

Over the years, many have stood beside Kenny and his family. He was always grateful for the kindness and friendship of so many in the Homer area. The family wishes to thank all of you in the community for your love, care and support during this time.

In lieu of flowers, Ken’s wishes were that donations be made to the Alaska Bible Institute at: 1295 Mission Road, Homer, AK 99603. Or, donations may be made online at: www.alaskabible.org/alaskabible.