Kenneth Allan Frye
GLASGOW – Kenneth Allan Frye, 79, passed away on April 11, 2023. He was born on July 4, 1943, in Falls City, NE, and was the oldest of six kids.
On Feb. 26, 1966, Ken married Julie Fuller Frye in Baldwin City, KS. Then, their adventures began! Ken’s commitment to his family and the community was evident in his actions, from churning ice cream at reunions to helping with real estate in the summer. Ken’s bags were always packed for traveling. While living in Colorado, Ken and Julia traveled to all of the fourteeners. They also proudly traveled to all 50 states and the majority of national parks.
Ken was always a math instructor and coach at heart. He taught from January 1966 until March 2020, starting at an Indian Reservation in Kansas and ending at Barren County High School. He taught for 29 years between Shawnee Mission North and Shawnee Mission Northwest. Over the years, he coached basketball, football, cross country, and track and field. Seeing kids’ continued growth over time and celebrating their successes was always an honor. He never tooted his own horn because he did not need to; however, Ken was inducted into SM North’s Hall of Fame for his Cross Country coaching in 2012. He consistently lived with integrity, quiet leadership, and kindness.
Ken graduated from Reserve High School in rural Kansas before attending and graduating from Baker University in December 1965. Then, he earned his Masters’ degree from KU in June 1969.
He is survived by his college sweetheart and wife of 57 years, Julia (Julie) Frye. He is also survived by his children, Brent (Heather) Frye, Scott (Cheryl) Frye, and Ruth Frye; and grandchildren, Elena, Bella, Thomas, James, Margaret, and Eliza. He is survived by siblings, Ann (Greg) Hladky; and brothers, Les (Mary) Frye, Dean Frye, and Gary (Sher’ree) Frye. He is also survived by beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents Thomas S. Frye and Uverna Rodgers Frye Lorenz; and his brother, Roger Frye.
A Memorial service will be held at 11 AM Saturday, July 1, 2023, at the Faith Community Church at 200 Green Acres Drive, Glasgow, KY 42141. The family has entrusted Hatcher and Saddler Funeral Home with arrangements.
