Kenneth Gilchrist

Kenneth Gilchrist, age 88, of Grand Rapids passed away Tuesday, July 28, 2015.  He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 67 years Chris, daughter Joan Walsh (Dan), grandchildren: Meghan Power (Patrick), Erin Murphy-Doan (Adam) and Ryan Walsh (Jaime) and great-grandchildren: Andrew, Kathleen, Kenneth and Mary Power.

Ken was born in Great Britain. He proudly served in the Cameron Highlanders during World War II. While he was stationed in Scotland, he met his bride. They were married following their service and lived in Aberdeen, where Ken began his career as a painting apprentice. Later they moved to London, Ontario, Canada where he continued his career as a painter.

In 1960, they made their home in Grand Rapids when he accepted a position in sales for Grand Rapids Paint and Varnish, the company which later became Guardsman Chemicals, Inc. Ken stayed with Guardsman for the remainder of his career, retiring as Executive Vice President of the corporation and a member of the Board of Directors. Throughout his career and in retirement, Ken sat on the boards for other local companies and organizations.

He was proud of many associations throughout his life, including the Masons, the Shriners and long-time membership at the Peninsular Club. In retirement, he loved to travel, read and spend time with Chris watching the wildlife out their porch windows.

He was very generous to all those around him and he will be dearly missed.

Visitation will be held Friday from 4-7pm at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home. A private memorial will be held by the family. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of ones choice.  

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