Resident of Whitefish, MT

Ken Painter passed away from pancreatic cancer on 14 February 2025, in Whitefish, MT, at the age of 67.

Ken was born on28October 1957, in San Jose, CA. He received a congressional appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy from California and graduated with the Class of 1979 as amember of the 30th Company. Avarsity golfer during his time at the Academy, Ken continued his passion for aviation by entering flight school after graduation, earning his wings in February 1981.

He served as a P-3 command pilot with VP-6 “Blue Sharks” from 1981 to 1984, completing multiple deployments to Agana, Guam; Diego Garcia; Adak, Alaska; Midway; and Cubi Point in the Philippines. He later served as an instructor pilot with VT-27 Boomers in Corpus Christi before resigning his commission in February 1986.

Following his military service, Ken embarked on a successful career in financial management. He worked with PaineWebber before moving to A.G. Edwards and later Stifel Nicolaus as Senior Vice President. Over the years, he worked from offices in San Jose, CA; Incline Village, NV; and Kalispell, MT.

Ken found joy in life’s simple pleasures and took great pride in his many hobbies. An avid golfer, he cherished time on the course and the friendships it fostered. His craftsmanship was evident in his woodworking projects and homebuilding endeavors. He also had a passion for winemaking, carefully crafting each bottle to share with loved ones. Above all, he treasured time spent with his wife, sons, and grandchildren.

Ken is survived by his mother, Ileta; brother, Steve (USNA Class of’78); wife of 43 years, Laura Leah Dench of Monte Sereno, CA; sons Benjamin (Irene) and Robert (Lisa); and five grandchildren: Benjamin, Isaac, Jacob, Harrison, and Lana.

Interment will take place at Arlington National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to PanCAN or the Hospice Foundation.