Kenneth John Dahlka Jr.

Kenneth John Dahlka Jr., 83, of Portage, Michigan, passed away surrounded by his beloved wife and daughters on August 23, 2026.

Ken was born on April 7, 1943, in Monroe, Michigan, the only child of Kenneth and Marcella Dahlka Sr. He graduated from Trenton High School in 1961, where he was an accomplished three-sport varsity athlete, competing in football, basketball, and track. He served as co-captain of the varsity track team and earned All-Star State recognition. Ken went on to attend Western Michigan University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Business and Psychology and was a member of the Delta Chi fraternity.

Throughout his career, Ken held a variety of positions that reflected his many talents and interests. He began his career as a Bank Manager at First National Bank, later worked as a stockbroker with Merrill Lynch in Grand Rapids, and served as a Sales Engineer with Stryker Corporation. He ultimately finished his career as a Master Tool and Die maker at InterKal Corp.

Ken was a dedicated gun collector and longtime member of the National Rifle Association who thoroughly enjoyed the sport of shooting, earning a reputation among all who knew him as an exceptional marksman. An avid outdoorsman, Ken loved deer hunting and, from the time he was a boy, cherished spending time on Drummond Island, a place that remains special to the entire family. He also enjoyed collecting coins, stamps, and antiques. His love of sports continued throughout his life. A devoted Detroit Lions fan, he never missed watching a game on Football Sunday. Ken also played basketball, softball, and rugby and was an avid golfer who participated in city leagues for many years. He was also an enthusiastic poker player and, for many years, looked forward to his trips to Las Vegas a couple of times each year.

Ken shared his life with his wife, Joanne Dahlka. Ken and Joanne celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary on August 15, 2026, just days before his passing. Together, they built a beautiful family and a lifetime of memories.

More than anything, Ken treasured his family. The unconditional love and constant support he demonstrated were unprecedented. Each member of his family could always count on him for whatever was needed—his wise advice, a shoulder to cry on, or simply an ear to listen. Ken was a quiet anchor. The calm force in the family. He didn't always have many words; the fact that he showed up was often all that was needed.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Marcella Dahlka, Sr. He is survived by his loving wife, Joanne Dahlka; his children, Bridget Pawloski (John McKay), Melissa Hansen (Todd Hansen), and Kelly Webb (Shawn Haller); his grandchildren, Drew Pawloski, Kailyn Webb, and Macie Jo Webb; and his great-granddaughters, Charlotte and Ellora.

His legacy was built on the unwavering love and devotion he had for his family, and it lives on through his children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives are better because he was a part of them. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

A Celebration of Life honoring Ken will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Locals Bar, 224 E. Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007.

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Kenneth's online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006.