Obituaries : Kenneth S. Stahnke

Kenneth S. Stahnke, 86, of La Porte City, died at La Porte City Specialty Care on Monday, October 2, 2023 of natural causes.

Kenneth was born in Benton County on the family farm and arrived on Mother's Day, May 12, 1937. He was the only son of Harold and Addie (Ballheim) Stahnke.

He attended country school south of the farm. Kenneth graduated from La Porte City High School with the class of 1955.

Kenneth loved the farm and all of his animals. He wanted every farm creature to have shelter. He showed calves for 4-H, enjoyed his horses, and driving pony teams.

He met the love of his life, Sharon Machacek, at a church function as teenagers. Kenneth and Sharon were united in marriage on February 15, 1959. From this union two daughters completed their family.

Kenneth grew up as a man of faith due to his parents being so deeply rooted in their church. This continued throughout his life and was passed onto his family.

Kenneth held various jobs throughout his life, but his love for farming always won. He raised hogs from farrow to finish.

In his semi-retirement, Kenneth collected IH tractors and memorabilia. Kenneth and Sharon made several lasting friendships through the toy shows they attended. The couple enjoyed their relationships with church friends and card club members over the years.

Those left to cherish his memories are his wife, Sharon of 64 years; daughters, Karmen (Bryan) Church of Grimes and Kenda of Waterloo; and granddaughter, Kelsey (Zachary) Miner of Pennsylvania.

Preceded in death by his parents and sister, Elaine Becker.