Kenneth Earl Pechumer

Kenneth Earl Pechumer

September 8, 1947 - August 30, 2025

Kenneth Earl Pechumer passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025 surrounded by his wife and children, after courageously battling cancer. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Ken was 77 years old. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Delancy Earl and June Pechumer, and his son, David F. Byers. He is survived by his beloved wife and life partner, Elizabeth A. Pechumer; his sister Susan (Jerry) Luna; his brother Tom (Lynn) Pechumer; his daughters Kelly (Andrew) Grignon and Rebekah (Ryan) Condon; his sons Kevin (Makenna) Pechumer and Aaron (Lauren) Byers; and eight cherished grandchildren.

A Distinguished Career

Ken began his career after attending Grand Rapids Junior College, where placement administrator, Rhosan Stryker, helped him land his first job programming computers. This opportunity led to a remarkable 42-year career with The KMW Group, where he held progressively responsible positions that showcased his leadership and vision.

He started as Vice President of Data Processing in the Kawasaki Midwest division, where his dedication to outstanding service helped earn the company numerous awards serving motorcycle dealers across five states. Kawasaki was known for letting the "Good Times Roll," and under Ken's leadership, they certainly did. The company's strong appreciation for employees even led to building the first official racquetball court in Grand Rapids.

Ken later served as President of Great Lakes Marine for over 23 years, supporting marine dealers throughout Michigan. His final seven years were spent as Chief Operating Officer for the Skytron division, where his accomplishments included relocating the entire operation to a new facility, modernizing computer systems, and developing innovative employee engagement management programs.

A Life of Sports and Competition

Ken's passion for sports was legendary. He excelled at baseball, bowling, basketball, golf, hockey, and softball, but it was racquetball and hockey that truly captured his heart. Shortly after joining KMW, he discovered the company's new racquetball court and, with coaching from Gordon Kelly, became skilled enough to win Grand Rapids' first official racquetball tournament.

Hockey became Ken's greatest athletic passion. He would travel with groups to Lansing or Muskegon for late-night games, often playing for two hours after midnight against talented Canadian players. His enthusiasm for the sport helped support the development of Grand Rapids' first ice rink at Jolly Roger, which became the foundation for youth and adult hockey leagues in the area. Ken played competitively into his 50s until a hip replacement forced his retirement from the ice.

Retirement from playing didn't end Ken's involvement in hockey. He coached youth hockey for over five years, and it was through coaching that he met his future wife, Beth. At Kawasaki, his summer sports enthusiasm led him to start two company softball teams, naturally coaching one of them and fostering friendly competition among colleagues.

Fishing Adventures and Friendships

Ken always had a passion for bass fishing. Family Memorial Day Weekend tournaments became annual traditions featuring three days of spirited competition. What started as casual fishing with longtime friends evolved into a legendary four-man group that included Ken (nicknamed "MOJO"), John ("Two Poles"), Lon ("The Skipper"), and Roger ("Grizzly").

From 2018 until October 2024, this competitive fishing group met regularly, with contests determining who bought lunch. While fishing was the main event, the trash-talking at lunch often earned bigger points. The camaraderie and competition of this group brought Ken tremendous joy throughout his later years.

Family and New Adventures

In 2019, Ken and Beth discovered pickleball, finding what they called their "second family" among their fellow players. But perhaps Ken's greatest joy came from watching his children build families of their own. The marriages of his daughters and sons, followed by the arrival of eight grandchildren, filled his life with purpose and happiness.

Ken often marveled at how quickly grandchildren could fill a day with their energy and questions. Despite the chaos, he treasured these times, especially the quiet moments when a grandchild would slow down just enough to give him a hug.

A Legacy of Love and Leadership

Ken Pechumer lived a full and meaningful life, marked by professional excellence, athletic achievement, deep friendships, and above all, devotion to family. Whether leading a company division, coaching young athletes, competing with fishing buddies, or playing with grandchildren, Ken approached every endeavor with enthusiasm, integrity, and a generous spirit.

His life was a testament to the joy found in hard work, healthy competition, and the precious moments shared with those we love.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 1pm - 6pm at Bay Point Woods in Shelbyville, MI. Please join us in your favorite sports team gear. In lieu of flowers consider making a donation to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society..