Ken R. Craden
Ken R. Craden, 71, passed away on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, at Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital.
Kenneth Robert Craden was born on June 11, 1952, in Saint Louis, Missouri, to Robert and Mary Ann (Junkerman) Craden. Growing up in Saint Ann, Ken attended Ritenour High School, where he graduated in the class of 1971. His strong sense of duty led him to enlist in the US Air Force, where he served his country with pride. Upon returning to civilian life, Ken worked various mechanic jobs and furthered his education at Ranken Trade School. Ken then embarked on a 25+ year career as a diesel mechanic with Nu Way Services where he retired as a member of the Teamsters Local 618.
Ken's early life was blessed with the birth of his son, Carey Craden. In 1999, Ken met the love of his life, Kathleen Sharp. They were later united in marriage on July 2, 2013, and shared a bond that was truly special. Together, they created a life filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories.
Ken loved nothing more than family gatherings, where he could be found manning the grill at BBQs and playing card games. He loved the outdoors and often enjoyed camping in his younger years. Ken had a love for all animals especially his dogs; he treated them like family. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent with them, often teasing them relentlessly and assigning fun nicknames to them. He left a lasting impression on each one of them with his “life lessons”. Ken loved his country and loved discussing politics with others. He was happiest when he was simply spending time with his "princess," Kate.
In June of 2021, Ken was saved and baptized. From that moment on, he dedicated himself to witnessing to others, sharing his faith with a passion that was infectious. He became very active and involved in his church, Christ Chapel of Saint Clair, where he loved spending time and fellowshipping with his church family.
Ken was survived by his wife Kate Sharp of Sullivan, Missouri; a son, Carey Craden of O’Fallon, Missouri; five, loving step-children: Keith Sharp of Branson, Missouri, Kendall Sharp and wife Clarissa of Springfield, Missouri, Phillip Sharp and wife Rebecca of Richland, Washington, Andy Sharp and wife Salina, of Sullivan, Missouri, and Kelly Keen and husband Brian of Sullivan, Missouri; 15 grandchildren: Ryan Sharp, Ben Sharp, Kyle Huber, Jonathan Sharp, James Mayfield, Corey Sharp, Keeley Brown, Linda Bekemeier, Sarah Sharp, Taylor Sharp, Drew Sharp, Alyssa Mueller and husband Austin, Brianna Keen, Kolton Keen and Kaleb Keen; eight great-grandchildren: Riley, Logan, Bailey, James, Jonah, Noah, Ava, Emilia, and Marley; three sisters: Nancy Craden of Branson West, Missouri, Rosanne Moore and husband Jim of Wheaton, IL, and Laurie Carroll of Frisco, Texas; his mother, Mary Ann Craden of Frisco, Texas; niece and nephew Nicole Killick(Mark) and Dan Moore(Melissa); a great niece, London Killick; his best friend, Jim Klump; and three precious pups: Buddy, Skinner and Rascal; other relatives and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Robert; his paternal grandparents, Charles and Gertrude Craden; his maternal grandparents, William and Mary Junkerman; brother-in-law Robert Carroll.
Funeral Services will be 11 AM, Monday, April 8, 2024, at Christ Chapel Church of Saint Clair with Pastor Jay Tilson officiating. Interment will follow at the Bourbon Cemetery in Bourbon, Missouri.
Visitation will be 9 – 11 AM, Monday, April 8, 2024, at Christ Chapel Church of Saint Clair prior to the funeral service.
Memorial contributions may be made to HALO or Christ Chapel Church of Saint Clair.
Friends may also send their online condolences to Ken’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com
All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home and Cremation Center.