Rev. Kenneth H. Lein

1938 - 2026

Rev. Kenneth H. Lein, 87, of Kewadin, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 22, 2026 at Meadow Brook Nursing Facility in Bellaire.

Ken was born in Milwaukee on July 30, 1938 to Harold and Lucille Lein. He graduated with honors from Rufus King High School in 1956, furthering his studies at Wartburg College in Iowa and Capitol University in Columbus, Ohio. Ken earned his Master's degree at the Lutheran School of Theology (University of Chicago) in 1964 and was ordained into the Lutheran Church (LCA/ELCA) as a Pastor, recently celebrating 62 years in the ministry.

Ken’s love of music began at age 4 with the accordion, followed closely by the bassoon, piano, and organ. While attending Capitol, his love of music brought him “true love,” when he met his beloved wife, Suzanna. Both sang in the choir at Broadstreet Presbyterian Church in Columbus. The couple was married a year later and spent the next 63 years side by side until Suzanna's death in 2023. Together they served churches in Illinois, Pennsylvania and Michigan.

The couple was blessed with two sons, Johnathan (Amy) of Altamonte Springs, FL, and David of Elk Rapids. They also served as foster parents throughout their ministry. Ken and Sue were proud and loving grandparents to NoahDavid (Natalie), Joshua (Alyssa) and Olivia Suzanna (Darrius), and great-grandparents to Vienna, Samuel, Ezekiel, Zarielle, and Jasper.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Suzanna; and sister, Janet Ehn. He is survived by his sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with his nieces Becky, Wendy (Patric), and Amy (Tait).

Throughout his life, Ken served on numerous boards, but was most proud of his appointment as Chaplain for the Friends of The Wannamaker Organ. His musical talent entertained hundreds of people from young children to senior citizens over the course of his life and ministry. Ken could easily switch from playing "A Mighty Fortress" on the pipe organ while immediately transitioning into "The Beer Barrel Polka" or “When Irish Eyes are Smiling” (always for mom).

He and Sue felt blessed to be called to their vocation of serving others, following the example of Christ and loving everyone no matter who they were. They were not perfect, but as Sue would say, "We always gave it our best."

The family would like to thank all staff at the Villa in Traverse City, Meadow Brook, and Heartland Hospice for the exceptional care they provided to Ken.

Kenneth's Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 30 with visitation one hour prior to the service at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 403 Traverse St. in Elk Rapids. A short graveside service at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Kewadin and luncheon (at St. Paul’s) will follow. Memorials may be directed to Calvary Lutheran Church, 10180 Elk Lake Road, Williamsburg, MI 49690.

Beacon Cremation and Funeral Service, Covell-Traverse City Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.