Kenneth L. “Ken” Washburn, Jr., 73, of Hutchinson, died July 6, 2025, at Pleasant View Home, Inman. He was born December 16, 1951, in Greensburg, Kansas, to Kenneth L. Washburn, Sr. and Phyllis W. Cline.
Ken proudly served in the United States Army 1st Battalion 3rd Infantry “The Old Guard”. He enjoyed working with his hands and was able to fix anything he set his sights on. Ken was a master plumber who worked as an independent contractor and was employed at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center for over 10 years. He also absolutely loved the outdoors. Hunting, fishing and just being in nature. Ken’s love for his family shined through the most. Whether he was spending time with his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren or nieces and nephews he was happiest amongst those he loved and who loved him endlessly. Ken is described by his family as sweet, generous, loyal, handy and carefree.
On January 24, 1973, he married Joyce Brown, in Greensburg, Kansas. They shared 52 amazing years of marriage before his death. They met in Arlington, Virginia at Ken’s Army going away party and it was love at first sight. Once married they lived in Maine, Kansas, and Vermont.
Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Joyce Washburn of Hutchinson; sons, Barry Washburn and wife Keri of Melbourne, Florida, Paul Washburn and wife Sharon of Hutchinson, Kansas grandchildren, Connor Torres and husband Spencer, Abby Washburn, and Sam Washburn; great-grandchildren, Simon and Callum Torres; siblings, Bill Washburn and wife Pam, Kathy Crenshaw, Tracy Lawson and husband Bret, and many more loved family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.
Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 17, 2025 at Elliott Mortuary in Hutchinson, Kansas. Friends may sign his memorial book 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Elliott Mortuary until the service. Graveside service will be 10 a.m. Friday, July 18, 2025, at Fairview Cemetery, Greensburg, Kansas with Pastor Gary Getting officiating. Military honors will be conducted by Fort Riley Honor Guard.
Cremation has taken place.
In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Reno County Veterans’ Memorial, in care of Elliott Mortuary, 1219 N. Main St. Hutchinson, KS 67501.