Kenneth Lyle Gulbraa

Our hearts are heavy as we say goodbye to Ken, a man whose life was full of laughter, love, and unforgettable stories. Born in Bradley, South Dakota, he grew up on a farm in rural Wallace alongside his 10 brothers and sisters. He learned early on the value of family and the importance of a good sense of humor. In 1952, he proudly served in the Navy during the Korean War, making three trips to Korea before his honorable discharge in 1956.

Ken married the love of his life, Shirley, and they shared 59 years of marriage. Their story began with a blind date that blossomed into a lifelong partnership. They made their home in Brooklyn Park before moving to a small hobby farm in Anoka, where they raised their two children, Kevin and Michelle. Later, he was blessed with four grandchildren Tory, Kurt, Kyle and Wyatt, each holding onto the lessons and laughter he generously shared. In 1999 they found their forever home in Elk River.

Ken worked in various roles, including a farmhand, road construction worker, welder, and finally, as a custodian with the Osseo School District, a position he truly cherished. He touched countless lives with his warm energy and smile. The kids adored him, always feeling uplifted by his kindness and positive attitude. When he retired, the entire school came together to celebrate him, and as a special tribute, the students brought him his favorite snack, Twinkies, a gesture that perfectly reflected the joy and love he spread throughout his career. He retired in 1994, just in time to enjoy spending quality time with his grandsons and travelling the world with Shirley, his family, and friends.

Ken had an incredible ability to make everyone laugh, sharing stories that captivated us all. His warmth, his jokes, and his presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the stories he shared, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave. We'll hold onto those moments, knowing that even though he's gone, his spirit will always be with us.

Ken is survived by his wife Shirley, children Kevin and Michelle (Keith), grandsons Tory (Mariah), Kurt, Kyle (Brianna), and Wyatt, five great grandchildren as well as his sisters Erlis, Janice, and Mary.

He was preceded in death by his siblings Jim, Mayme, Carl, Dick, Harry, Lonny, Corliss, and his parents, John K. and Anna C. Gulbraa.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 11:00 AM, with visitation one hour prior, at Central Lutheran Church, 1103 School Street NW, Elk River, MN.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Dare’s Funeral Home of Elk River, MN. 763-441-1212. www.daresfuneralhome.com.

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