Kenneth “Ken” Duane Pyburn, 74, of Menahga, Minnesota, passed away Thursday, Feb. 5, 2015, at Pleasant Akers Assisted Living in Akeley, Minnesota.

Ken was born March 8, 1940, in Austin, Minnesota, the son of James and Goldie (Miller) Pyburn. He graduated from Austin High School in 1958. He was united in marriage to Barbara Larson on July 20, 1958, in Austin, Minnesota. They lived in several different communities as Ken worked as a manager for the Woolworth Company. They owned and operated Ken’s Variety Store in St. Charles for many years. He also was a partner in several other stores in southeastern Minnesota. Ken was very involved in the community: Chamber of Commerce president, Jaycee president, and served on the board at his church. Ken and Barb moved to Menahga in 1978. They bought a small farm where they were able to enjoy the country life. They raised sheep and crop-farmed for many years. Ken worked at Lamb Weston/ RDO until his retirement. Ken was a hard working and caring individual with a great sense of humor. He enjoyed deer hunting with his family and friends. He also has been known to visit the golf course a time or two over the years. Most of all Ken enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

Ken is survived by his wife Barb Pyburn of Menahga, Minnesota; son Mark (Sue) Pyburn of Alexandria, Minnesota; daughter Julie (Brian) DeZeeuw of Sauk Rapids, Minnesota; son Scott (Amy) Pyburn of Nevis, Minnesota; six grandchildren: Becky, Brian, Kyra, Ashley, Nathan, and Amber; his brothers: Bill of Austin, Minnesota, and John (Gretchen) of Green Valley, Arizona.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son Randy; and brothers: Bob and Roger.

Memorial services will be held on Friday, Feb. 20, 2015. Visitation will take place at 1 p.m. and service will take place at 2 p.m. at the Cease Family Funeral Home Chapel in Park Rapids, Minnesota. Pastor Sarah Jensen is officiating. Inurnment will be held at the Hillside Cemetery in St. Charles, Minnesota, in the spring.

Cease Family Funeral Home of Park Rapids is assisting with the arrangements. For more information call Cease Family Funeral Home of Park Rapids, Minnesota, at 218-732-7264. Online condolences may be left at www.ceasefuneralhome.com.