Dates
Kenneth Merle Pfingsten, 88, passed away surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of faith, hard work, friendship, and unwavering love for those around him.
Kenneth was born and raised in Woodworth, Illinois, where he grew up in a large German farming family alongside his seven siblings. The values of faith, family, and hard work that were instilled in him during his childhood remained the foundation of his life.
In 1978, Kenneth moved to Texas, where he built a life centered on family, community, and service. He worked for Concho Valley Electric Cooperative for nearly 30 years, earning the respect of coworkers and friends through his dedication and strong work ethic. After retiring, he continued working at Silver Dollar Storage, where he truly enjoyed visiting with customers, sharing stories, and making new friends.
Kenneth never met a stranger. His warm smile, genuine kindness, and gift for conversation made everyone feel welcome. He loved his church family and faithfully served through worship, fellowship, and friendship.
Music brought Kenneth great joy. He was proud to sing in a quartet and was a member of the Twin Mountain Tonesmen, sharing his love of music and harmony withothers over the years.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Kenneth was an avid Chicago Bears fan and a devoted supporter of the ASURams. As a loyal Ram Club member, he attended every game he could, cheering on the Rams with pride and enthusiasm. But his favorite teams were always the ones his grandchildren played on. Whether the game was at home or away, you could always look up into the stands and find Kenneth there, cheering them on. He rarely, ifever, missed a game, and his unwavering presence, encouragement, and pride meant more to his family than words could express.
His love of sports extended beyond watching from the sidelines. Holiday gatherings often turned into spirited family basketball games filled with laughter, playful competition, and cherished memories. Whether he was playing, cheering everyone on, or encouraging the younger generations, Kenneth treasured every moment spent together.
Family was the center of Kenneth's life. He and Linda shared 62 wonderful years of marriage, building a home filled with faith, love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. He treasured every gathering, every conversation, and every opportunity to create lasting memories. One of his favorite family traditions was the annual Christmas scavenger hunt, where someone in the family would embark on an adventure that brought laughter, friendly competition, and unforgettable moments for everyone.
When family traveled from Illinois to visit, evenings were often spent gathered around the table playing cards. Those games were filled with storytelling, laughter, good-natured teasing, and the kind of fellowship that became treasured family traditions.
Kenneth had a knack for creating memories that would be retold for years. One family favorite was the time he was frying chicken and accidentally set the shed—and even part of the grass—on fire. What could have been a disaster became one of those unforgettable stories that always brought laughter whenever it was shared.
His grandchildren and great-grandchildren will forever cherish the simple adventures they shared with him. From riding bikes through the neighborhood to swinging from the rope swing while proudly yelling the German words and phrases Papa had taught them, Kenneth found joy in passing along his heritage and making everyday moments feel special. Those memories, filled with laughter, encouragement, and love, will remain lasting treasures for generations to come.
Kenneth also had a special place in his heart for Bella, the family's beloved dog, whose companionship brought him comfort, joy, and countless happy moments.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Walter and Elma Pfingsten, and his dear siblings, Bernice, Wendell, Evelyn, Buddy, Marilyn, Leon, andDianne, all of whom he loved deeply and carried in his heart throughout his life.
He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 62 years, Linda Bernice Pfingsten; his sons, Brent Pfingsten and his wife, Kala, and Brian Pfingsten and his wife, Amanda; his grandchildren, Bryce Pfingsten and his wife, Hannah; Macy Pfingsten and her fiancé, Jordon; Brandon Pfingsten and his wife, Mia; and Alena Bryan and her husband, Jordan; his great-grandchildren, Graeme, Steeli, Wade, Damian, Brynnley, Jaiden, and Joseph; along with many extended family members, lifelong friends, and his cherished church family.
Kenneth will be remembered for his steadfast faith, his deep love for his family, his generous heart, his joyful spirit, and his ability to make everyone feel like a lifelong friend. Whether cheering on the Bears or the Rams, singing with friends, playing cards with family, laughing over one of his legendary stories, enjoying time with Bella, or creating treasured family memories, Kenneth lived a life rich with love, laughter, and purpose.
His greatest joy was found in his faith, his family, and the friendships he cultivated throughout his life. The memories he created—from holiday basketball games and neighborhood bike rides to Christmas scavenger hunts, German lessons on the rope swing, evenings around the card table, and stories of the infamous chicken-frying fire—will continue to bring smiles for years to come.
He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Harper Funeral Home from 5:00-7:00pm. Funeral service will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church at 10:00am, with burial to follow at Lawnhaven Memorial Gardens.