Kenneth Allen Handley

Age 71 of Lake Station, Indiana passed away on October 29, 2024. Ken to all but his mother, was born on August 7th, 1953, the third of four boisterous sons to Walter and Violet (Waggle) Handley. Ken was a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and wore his pride on his sleeve - literally. His hats, jackets, truck, flag pole, and woodshop walls all boasted the emblem of the Corps he loved so much.

After retirement from Bethlehem Steel, Ken spent his time exploring Indiana's beauty with his beloved wife Leesa, finding joy in camping and adventure, especially at Brown County State Park.  His woodshop, always filled with the smell of sawdust and stained with stories, was his sanctuary and creative haven.

For the past 19 years Ken faced chronic health problems with strength, humor, and stubbornness. In the worst of times, he would think more of his wife and daughter then himself, reassuring us that he was "Strong like bull! Bull-s***!"

Ken is survived by his wife of 26 years, Leesa (Viers) Handley; his daughters Melanie (Mark) Litke-Bird and Melissa Hursey; stepdaughter Wendy (Chris) Hewlet; and his treasured grandchildren Charlie, Sebastian, and Mason Litke. He also leaves behind step-grandchildren Tyler Hewlet, Alyssa Lembcke, Aidyn Rarick, Ava, Alana, and Henry Hursey-Ortiz, and Zay and Mason Bird, as well as his brother, Walter Jr. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Billy Joe and Martin, stepdaughter Erica Radic-Lewis, and his cherished bulldog, Sam.

Ken's spirit and humor live on in the laughter of his grandchildren, the warmth of the family he adored, and in every trip to the Indiana state parks he cherished.

Per Ken's wishes there will be no services held. Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel and cremation services are entrusted with cremation. (219) 762-3013 or online condolences can be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com