Kenneth B. Marsh
November 19, 1935 – August 16, 2026
Kenneth B. Marsh was a remarkable man whose life was defined by curiosity, adventure, service, and an enduring love for the people and world around him. He passed away on August 16, 2026, in Federal Way, Washington, at the age of 90, leaving behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will miss him deeply.
Born November 19, 1935, in Kettering County, England, Kenneth was the son of Bernard and Grace Marsh. From an early age, he developed the qualities that would remain with him throughout his life: an eagerness to learn, a fascination with how things worked, and a desire to understand the world around him. He attended Bridlington Boys School and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.
In 1965, Kenneth moved from England to the United States, beginning a new chapter filled with opportunity, friendship, family, and adventure. He spent 30 years as a structural and mechanical engineer with The Boeing Company, retiring in June 1995. Rather than simply putting his career behind him, Kenneth continued working as a contract consulting engineer until 2005. His work took him to more than 20 countries and gave him the opportunity to experience cultures and people around the world. He learned to speak seven or more languages, including Latin, which he had studied as a child.
But Kenneth’s life was about far more than his career. He had an extraordinary appetite for learning and sharing what he knew. His personal library grew to more than 2,000 books, reflecting the many subjects that captured his imagination. He was an amateur magician, practiced Tai Chi and Qigong, and had a deep interest in natural health and supplements. He played guitar, loved classical music, and sang in his church choir.
Kenneth also believed in giving his time to others. He was a Tai Chi instructor at the Sammamish YMCA, chairman of the Juvenile Court Conference Committee in Kent, Washington, and a docent at the Seattle Museum of Flight. Through Toastmasters International, he served as a District 2 Governor. He was also a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians and the Retired Society of Engineers. Wherever he was involved, Kenneth brought his knowledge, enthusiasm, and willingness to help.
Adventure was another important part of Kenneth’s life. He loved hiking, rock climbing, animals, and nature. He proudly summited Mount Rainier twice—an achievement that reflected the determination and adventurous spirit that characterized him. He and his wife, Pamela, shared a love of traveling, camping, and enjoying the outdoors. Among the simple pleasures they cherished were their many walks with their dogs at Marymoor Park.
To his family, Kenneth was much more than the accomplishments listed on a page. He was a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who brought a unique combination of intelligence, curiosity, humor, and enthusiasm to life. He could always be counted on to have something interesting to teach, a story to tell, a question to explore, or a new subject to learn about. His mind was always active, and his sense of wonder never seemed to fade.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Grace Marsh, and his beloved wife, Pamela, with whom he shared many years of life, travel, and memories.
He is survived by his brothers, Michael of Great Britain and Patrick of New Zealand; daughters, Lynda and Heather; stepchildren, Michael and Susan; 15 grandchildren; and 9 great-grandchildren. He also leaves behind extended family and friends who were fortunate to know him and whose lives were made richer by his presence.
Kenneth’s family will remember him not only for what he accomplished, but for the way he lived—with an open mind, a generous spirit, and an enduring curiosity about life. His love of learning, nature, adventure, family, and helping others will remain part of the legacy he leaves behind.
Though he is deeply missed, Kenneth’s life continues in the stories his family will tell, the knowledge he shared, the places he explored, and the many people whose lives he touched. He will be remembered, loved, and carried in the hearts of his family and friends for generations to come.
Memorial Service
A memorial service celebrating Kenneth’s life will be held at Bonney Watson Funeral Home, 16445 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA on October 10, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.
