Kenneth Howard Proctor

Kenneth Howard Proctor of Akron, age 75, passed away on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at home. He was born in Carson City on March 27, 1950, the son of the late Robert and Kenna Jean (Rohlfs) Proctor. Ken graduated from Akron-Fairgrove High School with the class of 1968. He married the love of his life, the former Victoria Kappen, on September 13, 1969 at Good Shepard Lutheran Church in Cass City. Their marriage was blessed with over fifty-six years, three beautiful daughters, and countless laughs and memories.

Ken proudly served in the United States Army for two years. After returning home, he began his working career at Steering Gear before farming alongside his father. In 1995, Ken returned to school to pursue a career as a corrections officer. He served at the Saginaw Correctional Facility in Freeland and later with Tuscola County, retiring in 2012. In addition to his corrections career, Ken assisted with the Tuscola County Marine Patrol and dedicated more than twenty-three years to the Akron Fire Department, including five years as Fire Chief.

Ken enjoyed anything that involved being out on the water, fishing, ice fishing, or boating, he was always ready to go. He also liked flying his drone and spending time outdoors. His favorite pastime, however, was teasing his granddaughters and, most of all, spending time with them. Ken was a hard worker with a wonderful sense of humor. His laughter, love, and the joy he brought to others will always be remembered.

Ken leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Victoria Proctor; daughters, Shelly Proctor, Angela (John) Zagorski, and Erica Nowland; granddaughters, Jocelyn and Kara Nowland; sister, Nancy (Ron) Will; mother-in-law, Shirley Kappen; brother-in-law, Rob (Crystal) Kappen; many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Ken was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Wallace Kappen; brothers-in-law, Ronald Kappen, Charles Kappen, and Jack Kappen; and sister-in-law, Bonnie Kappen.

In keeping with Ken’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at the Ransford Funeral Home in Caro. Ken’s family will be present to receive visitors on Wednesday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of his service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Tuscola County Veteran Affairs, American Heart Association, or a charity of the donor’s choice.