Kenneth Brown's Obituary
Kenneth W. Brown
June 10, 1960 – June 30, 2025
Kenneth W. Brown—known lovingly as Ken, Papa, or Pop—passed away on June 30, 2025, in his hometown of Sacramento, California, at the age of 65.
Ken was many things: a proud Marine, a dedicated worker, a loving father and grandfather, and a master of dad jokes. He was the kind of man who showed his love through action, humor, and his constant, caring presence.
Born on June 10, 1960, in Sacramento, Ken served in the United States Marine Corps, where he drove military trucks through all types of terrain—no road was too rough or too scary for him. After his service, he worked in the oil truck industry, traveling across the country inspecting and refilling reserves. His adventurous spirit and work ethic carried into his next chapter with the State of California, where he spent the last 20 years building a career marked by hard work, integrity, and leadership, eventually promoting to a supervisory role.
Ken loved being with his family more than anything. Camping trips, road adventures, and spontaneous getaways were his way of creating lifelong memories. Just recently, he returned from a family camping trip in Yellowstone National Park—a journey filled with laughter, stories, and the wonder of seeing Old Faithful together. Those memories will be treasured forever.
He is survived by his children, Raymond and Crystal (wife Fatima); his grandchildren, Derham, Aaliya, Abdul, April, Ilias, and Serenity; and his great-granddaughter, Yaretzi (Yari). He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Arneeta Brown—whom he deeply adored and who loved him fiercely in return.
Ken is also lovingly remembered by his former wife, Lydia Vasquez, with whom he shared a unique and enduring bond. Though no longer married, their relationship remained one of deep respect and heartfelt connection. Lydia was a significant presence throughout many chapters of Ken’s life, and their shared memories and affection continue to resonate with all who knew them both.
Ken will be remembered for his sarcastic wit, goofy humor, genuine heart, and the way he made everyone around him feel seen and loved. He was more than a father and grandfather—he was a friend, a mentor, and the kind of man who left things better than he found them.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Dante Event Center, 2330 Fair Oaks Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95825. All who knew and loved Ken are welcome to join in remembering and honoring his life.
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