Kenneth Jesse, age 91, passed away at his home in Broadus, MT on Jan 13, 2016. Ken was born in Miles City, MT on January 19, 1924 to Albert and Hazel (Kenny) Jesse. He attended several schools in Powder River County and Custer County before graduating high school in Miles City in 1944. Ken ranched and started a repair shop on the Mizpah at Olive and in 1949 he married Sarah (Daily), she was the love of his life. They were married for 64 years and to this union five children were born. Upon starting Broadus Truck & Supply he moved his family to Broadus. He had several enterprises; school busses, IHC and auto dealership, wreckers, Jesse Ambulance Service and was the coroner in Powder River County for over 50 years. His children worked beside him in his businesses, including the ranch. He was the longest running elected democrat in Powder River County. Ken was involved with Faith Bible Church and many organizations during his lifetime, including the Powder River Masonic Lodge #135, the Montana Coroner’s Association, the Broadus Volunteer Fire Department, Red Cross, AA, Boy Scouts, and the president of the infamous Rusty Zipper Club. Ken was a very active and social person who authored an autobiography that was published last year. This book included just a portion of his many tales and included the one that revealed how he became known as ‘Fred’. His laugh was infectious and his speedy trips (not necessarily in the ambulance) were legendary. His humorous and honest stories are just a glimpse into his full life. He enjoyed the Chicago Cubs, his automobiles, country music, trips to Deadwood and visiting with people everywhere he went, especially friends and family. Ken was known for his faithful daily trips to the Powder River Manor while his wife Sarah was a resident. His kind acts were not limited to his own family, he showed his love for his community in many ways, a lot of the times anonymously. Kenneth Jesse was preceded in death by his parents, wife Sarah, brother Malcome Jesse, daughters Linda Marie Minckler and Cindy Lou Graff. He is survived by his children Darlene D.J. (Thomas) Smith of Rapid City, SD, Richard Jesse of Olive, MT, Lora May (Steve) Jenks of Princeton, IN, son-in-laws Jack Minckler of Billings, MT and Steve Graff of Broadus, MT, 12 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and close friend Jay Nieman. Memorials or donations may be made to Powder River First Responders or the charity of your choice.
Visitation will be held on Monday, January 18, 2016 from 1:00 – 6:00 p.m. at Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Broadus. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. at Faith Bible Church in Broadus. Interment will follow in the Valley View Cemetery in Broadus. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.stevensonandsons.com.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday January 18, 2016
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
101 E. Wilson
Broadus, MT
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday January 18, 2016
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
101 E. Wilson
Broadus, MT
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Randy and Cynde Trucano says
So sorry to hear this. He was such a great man. He will be missed by everyone.
Kathy Biesheuvel says
One of our first friends in Broadus. Ken and LeRoy worked together so well. They are probably having a good visit right now. Condolences to his wonderful family.
Sylvia and Darold Zimmer says
Thoughts and prayers of peace for the family… Loved this man with a heart of gold…
Sharyn Wallace says
Oh my, he was always on top of a pedestal with me. Garry loved this man, he was a rock for his family and all of Powder River County. I first met him when his mom died. What a wonderful man.
Duane and Debbie Talcott says
Darlene and Thomas; Dick; Lora, Steve and Family; Steve, Courtney, Linda, and Mary Ellen; and all Ken’s family; you’re all in our thoughts and prayers. When our Lord calls a loved one home, he leaves a gift of memories in exchange. What wonderful memories he has left behind. One of my favorites is his chuckle/laughter; I can hear it now as he joins Sara, Linda, and Cindy, what a magnificent reunion that is. He’ll be missed!
Kirk and Ann Will says
Ken was one of the most generous, loving and kind men I’ve ever met. He was good to all people and always had something positive to share with his family and friends. Ken was like a second dad to me and I always enjoyed spending time at the Jesse home – where all kids were welcome! Darlene, Lora, & Dick – You and your family are in Kirk and my thoughts and prayers. I’m sure that Sara, Linda and Cindy are all welcoming Ken home to heaven today. May your memories of Ken keep your hearts filled with love as you remember him. All who knew Ken will greatly miss him! I can still smell his pipe today!!
Dick and Mary Sturtz says
So sorry to hear
Lee Bloxom says
I have known him most of my life a great man you will be missed Ken
Bernice Rolfson says
Dear Dick, Lora, Darlene, Steve and families. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Ken did so much for the community In offering ambulance service all these years. He will be greatly missed. I am sure he is having a joyous reunion with family and friends in heaven. My prayers are with all of you. God Bless each of you.
Christie Roen West says
While I did not have the pleasure of meeting Ken, I do know he has amazing granddaughters, Linda and Mary and Kourtney and an equally amazing son in law, Steve. My thoughts and prayers for the family in this sad time, I have had the opportunity to read parts of his book though, and Ken sounds like a man that loved life and it is my hopes that you can look beyond the sadness and celebrate his achievements and the wonderful legacy’s he has left behind. God Bless !!
Dawn Mraz says
Prayers to family , he will be MISSED!!
Pat Smith says
Dear Dick and families
Ken was such a wonderful person and a friend to everyone. He will be sorely missed by us all. May your many fond memories of him sustain you in this time of sorrow and for many years to come as he is someone whom we will never forget. Prayers for the family.
Cheryel Larson says
Ken was one of a kind! I loved meeting him and talking with him. Always so full of fun and life. He did a lot for the community that he loved and will be missed by everyone!
Vanna Byrd says
Oh, Papa Ken, you will be missed so very much. I always looked forward to your wit, wisdom and words of knowledge. I can’t imagine coffee time at the Cashway without you. You were such a big part of their lives and our lives as well. Go in peace.
Love you,
Karen Moutrey Gunther says
my thoughts and prayers are with all of Ken’s family, he will be missed, what a service he did for our community.
Tom & Ann says
Dear Jesse family, we are so sorry to hear of Ken’s passing. He was one of a kind, never to be another like him. May your memories help you through the rough days ahead.
tammy & john schoenbeck says
thoughts & prayers to the family, ken was “one of a kind” will always remember him being my bus driver & hanging out with him at the stockmans, brought him a dozen roses for caring rose week & when it was all said & done we were both laughing & crying, rest in peace friend
Meredith Blankenship Tuttle says
Dear Jesse family, so sorry to hear of your fathers passing. He will be dearly missed, your family was one of the first we met on arriving to Broadus. So many memories and good times. The community has lost a great man. Rest in peace my friend.
Dee Dee Stabio Heinert says
So sorry to hear of Ken’s passing. What an amazing man Ken was. Growing up in Broadus would not have been the same without Ken. He gave so much of himself to his community. God rest his soul.
Dick & Birdie Blankenship says
Dear Jesse Family , Your Dad was my best friend for the last 47 years .He will be missed.
Broadus will not be the same.
Skin and Betty Collins says
Condolences to all the Ken Jesse families
Ken will be missed so much by everyone that knew him. Since 1975 he has called me Flo after the TV show Mel’s Diner. They were a wonderful family that did so much for the community. Rest in peace Ken. And God Bless his family.
Lisa Gaskill says
So very sorry to hear this news. Thinking of all of you at this time.
The Hemmers says
Our deepest condolences. I enjoyed my interactions with Ken – he was a very kind person to many people. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Carol says
I’m so sorry to learn of Ken’s passing. My visits with Ken were always so fun ….. a very good guy!! He’s with Sarah again …… he was so loyal to her. My thoughts and prayers are with all of his family.
Carol Mellor Hanrahan
Bob Brooks says
We are very sorry to hear of Ken’s passing. We have many fine memories and had some fun times.
Bob and Blanche Brooks
Carolyn Heidel Johnson says
So sorry to hear about Ken. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as we fondly remember what a wonderful man he was. Broadus and we were so lucky to have had him in our lives.
Carolyn Heidel Johnson
Gerald & Janet Himelspach says
Sorry to hear about Ken. Our condolences to Dick and all of Ken’s family. Ken touched many lives, and will be missed.
Klayton and Mary Jane Rogge says
Ken will always hold a special place in our hearts. We were blessed to have known him since we were youngsters. I know he was met at heaven’s gate by Sara, Linda, and Cindy. and they are having one hotK of a time. So glad he finished his book. Will treasure it always.
Julie Richards says
So sorry to hear this. He was a great guy. I always felt safe when he took me to hospital in ambulance. God Bless a wonderful guy.
Cindy Cathey Rock says
Ken saved my Uncle Morris Rosencranz’ life years ago when he had a swather accident and was found lying in a horse tank with the swather cutting at his leg. That day the ambulance transported Uncle Morris we were living in Miles City near the highway and saw Ken flying up the highway doing at least 90 mph to get him to the hospital. This was before “life flight”. Morris had his life saved that day, because of Ken. Thanking this man and his family seems to be so little, not enough, for all that he and they have sacrificed to keep ambulance service in that area. Rest in peace.
Carolyn Kimball says
Heaven gained a real good one!!
Joshua Hopkins says
Ken gave me a lot of his time and energy when I decided I wanted to become an EMT. We both agreed I had a high purpose in life and I am so thankful for everything he shared with me. I alway knew if I needed someone to talk to Cindy or Ken always had time for me.
I will always remember the trips to Miles City with Ken driving and Leroy B. And myself were attending to a patient. They were either telling jokes or reminiscing about the good old days.
He taught me so much and wish I had the chance to thank him one more time.
Charlie & Shirley Russell says
Ken was always a bright spot in everybody’s day! Surely will miss him! Prayers of comfort for his family and for all of us!! Sure will miss him!
Cora Mae Ofstie says
Condolences to Kenny’s Family and friends. Kenny Jesse lived across the Mizpah Crik with his sweet Sarah when I was small. I remember him dancing with all the young women at the country dances. His laugh was always infectious. His speedy trips in his ambulance were legendary. He was such strong part of the community for all his 91 years. I’m so glad her wrote his book to share his many stories! We will all miss Kenny.
Kenny and Kelly Babb says
To all of Ken’ s family. He was such a special man, always had a smile and friendly greeting. He and Sara raised a wonderful family. They all put others before themselves. We know Ken is rejoicing to be reunited with Sara, Cindy, and Linda, and to be in the presence of the Lord.
He will be greatly missed by a community he was dedicated to and served faithfully. You’re in our hearts and prayers.
Patti (Green) Ireland says
To the Jesse family: I’m so sorry for your loss. We have many good memories of our two families together, and Ken will truly be missed. I pray that God will give you comfort in the days to come.
Patti Green Ireland, for Clifford and Lyla Green
Ern,Esther and Terry Nelson says
Home at last.! May God be you you all and comfort you at this time . Our Sympathy and prayers ..
Tom D. Trusler. says
I appriciated his kindness my first day of school in Broadus.
Norman and Vonnie Shannon says
Our thoughts and prayers are with Ken’s family. Whenever we saw him, he always had time to visit. RIP Ken.
Kim & Jeff Hostetter says
Such a wonderful man! Always kind and full of cheer. Rest in Peace, Ken. Condolences to his family.
Jeanne Green says
Sorry to hear of Ken’s passing! He was a kind, caring person.
William Collins says
Condolences to the Jesse family! Ken and family have always been pillars in the community, whether hauling kids to school or injured people to the hospital….
Dorothy and Taz Hafiz says
We are so sorry to hear about our favorite neighbor. Our prayers are with the Jesse family. We loved visiting with Ken and all his stories. Ken, you will be missed. May you rest in peace.
Randy & Terry Arpan says
I remember Jessey very well from our ambulance days. He was a great guy and funny! Wow, he lived until 91 years old!!
Andrea & Vern Rice says
My thoughts and prayers go out to Ken’s family. We have lost a wonderful man out of the community. my condolences to all of you.
Nancy and Bert Stoddard says
A neighbor and friend for 48 years. One of the first people who welcomed us to Broadus. You will be missed by many.
Ray and Sandy Smith says
Rest In Peace Ken–you were one of a kind. Our condolences to Dick and the rest of the family.
Kent & Gwen Gunther says
When Kent & I worked at Frank’s Body Shop, Ken loved to stop by for a chat & a cup of coffee with the guys. Even if I didn’t happen to be there when he stopped, there was always a little pile of hard candy on my desk waiting for me. Sometimes he’d swing in the parking lot, rush in the door, give me a couple candies and say “No time to talk sweetie, got to go!” Always made my day. Our condolences to his family.
Walter and ArLynn Archer says
To all of Ken’s family-
So sorry to learn of Ken’s passing. A very special neighbor, county servant, historian and man. Will miss our visits and the twinkle in his eyes when he shared a visit. Rest in Peace Ken.
Kourtney Hunking ( Graff ) says
Miss you Grandpa you were a wonderful Grandpa you were like a big stuffed bear you hug. I will miss watching the Cubs Games with you and i will always be a Cubs fan. You were a very good cook and miss you chili already. you spoiled us Mary, Linda, and I so much but that’s what Grandpas are for. Love you and miss you. Hugs to all the family.
Pam & Dave Nisley says
We too are praying for this wonderful family! We are here for you, and feel blessed that both of your parents have touched and enriched our lives!
Sally Borla says
KEN WILL BE SO MISSED; ALWAYS HAD A SMILE AND JUST ONE KIND GOOD MAN. I GOT TO KNOW HIM BETTER OVER THE MANY YEARS WORKING AT THE MANOR AND HOW I ADMIRED HIM FOR NEVER MISSSING A DAY TO COME SEE “HIS SARAH”. REST IN PEACE KEN–YOU DID SO MUCH FOR THE TOWN OF BROADUS–YOU WERE ONE OF A KIND.
GOD BLESS AND LOVE TO ALL THE FAMILY
Tammy Hutchinson says
Ken was one of a kind. I will miss his visits when he was in Miles City. Always had to have fresh cookies and coffee with sugar ready for him. Always enjoyed his stories and will treasure the book he gave me. He will be missed by many!
Ginger Johnston Held says
Thinking of the family, best to you at this tough time.
Lisa Neiman Majors & Jay Neiman says
Dick, Darlene and family, Broadus has lost a great man. Ken will be missed by all. I have fond memories of summer nights enjoying home made ice cream on the back porch and corn on the cob from the ranch and Ken’s pipe after dinner. Ken and Sara always welcomed us kids with open arms. God bless!
Yvonne Hanic says
My thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Ken. Ken was my bus driver for 4 years. I had never ridden a bus before but Ken make me feel very comfortable! He was a great man and I am glad I got to know him. May God Bless.
Deb (Moths) Schmeling says
Dear Jesse Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Ken was truly a man of his word. He was loved by everyone who knew and met him. He will be greatly missed by the community that he called home. May God wrap His arms around each one of you with His peace and comfort.
Gerald & Doris Irion says
sO SAD TO HEAR OF THE LOSS OF KENNY, A FINE OLD FRIEND OF SO MANY YEARS PAST. OUR LOVE AND PRAYERS AND GOOD THOUGHTS TO YOU, DICK, AND ALL OF THE FAMILY. GERALD & DORIS IRION
wajyne & Anita Wetherelt says
So sad & sorry to all of the family, all around that knew & loved him. Our thoughts & prayers to all.
Susan and Gene Moos says
So very sorry to hear of the loss of Ken. He was a very caring and compassionate man and great PR person for the schools with his bus line. I wonder how many school days he brightened with his easy smile and encouraging words to students.
Cindy Stanton says
My condolences to Mr. Jesse ‘ s family. He was such a wonderful fellow and did so much for his community. He will be missed. May God give you peace and comfort.
Judy Denson-Keller says
My heart, thoughts and prayers go out to the Jesse family at this time. The community of Broadus suffered another significant loss the day Ken passed away. Ken was a selfless person who made significant contributions to the community when he was a schoolbus driver, making sure many children were safe to the countless lives he saved with the ambulance service. Two of my family members are still alive today, thanks to Ken and Cindy’s dedication to the service. I grew up with his children and we had so many good times throughout our school years. May he have a most joyous heavenly reunion with Linda, Cindy, Sarah, and good neighbor, Georgia Damm. God Bless all of you!
Julie Gatlin and Kenny Gress says
Ken was one of my favorite people. My Dad went to work for Ken when we first moved to Broadus and I was always glad to see him. He will be missed by many. RIP Ken
Della Greslin says
So sorry to hear we have lost Ken. He has touched & left many great memories for almost every Broadus, Powder River County & close surrounding resident. He was a very caring man. I will personally remember him as a great friend, neighbor, historian, public service & family man. We will miss him in so many ways. He can now rest in peace with the best.
Sundi Sanders Eckholm says
So sorry for your loss! The Jesse family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Bill and Dina Gay says
Thinking of you all with deepest sympathies. Prayers for you as you are touched with memories.
Kara Clark Lambert says
Our sincere sypathies to all of Kens family. He was a wonderful person. We lived in the little house next to Ken and Sarah when I first moved to Broadus. Ken always watched our house and took care of things when we were the ranch including watering the lawn in the summer when we were haying. Sarah always shared her baked goodies with us. Very special people and I am so glad I knew them. Ken will be missed.
Darlene Watters Hance says
He was a good neighbor to my grandmother until her death. He will be remembered with great respect.
Audrey Snodgrass says
We have lost one of the great ones. My thoughts and prayers go to the family.
ann collins and family says
To the Jenks Family – and all of Ken’s family and friends: we are thinking of you and sending love and prayers to you today and going forward. We are sending our condolences for your loss as well.
Vic and Laura Lee Ullrich says
We offer hugs and sympathy to all the Jesse family. From neighboring at Olive to riding his bus to the countless times he was there in our our most troubling times, we will remember him with a smile and sometimes a tear. He was one in a million for sure. His passing leaves a huge hole in our community. His legacy is his wonderful caring family and the stories and legends he perpetuated. Rest in peace dear friend.
Roger and Lana Janssen says
Our thoughts and prayers to the family. Ken was my first school bus driver. He met us every morning with a smile, a pipe and most always wearing a cap and tie. Always there when a hand was needed. He also gave me a quick ride to Miles City after a wreck with a 4-H steer at the Broadus fair. I am so glad that I got to know Ken through the years.
Pete Stabio says
Ken always had a genuine interest in other’s lives and welfare…a rare and beautiful trait. He always had time to visit and inquire about your life and share his own. Ken’s sense of humor allowed him to laugh at life and not take himself to seriously. You always felt uplifted after spending time with Ken.
Debbie Grina Bonnet says
Mom always spoke of Ken as her best friend (and cousin) growing up in Eastern Montana.
I remember Ken as my Mom’s best friend and cousin growing up on adjacent ranches in Eastern Montana. What fun and adventures they had, wrestling rattle snakes and all, as they told it. As a little kid, I remember Ken showing up in Billings from time to time, for the sole purpose of entertaining me, as I recall it. (I was a really little kid.) I always thought it was cool that Ken had so many jobs at once. I’m hearing of his passing nine months after the fact. No surprise and nobody’s fault, but it makes me a little sad, because Ken – and much of his family – were ready on the spot when both of my parents passed away in Colorado some years ago. Miss you, Ken