Kenneth Roland Hanninen

Ken Hanninen, 74, passed away peacefully on September 15th, 2023 at his residence for the past 11 years: “Your Home at the Lake” in Battle Lake, MN. Ken was born on October 24th, 1948, in Two Inlets, Minnesota to Bruno and Ella (Pat) Hanninen. Ken’s journey through life was filled with love, joy, and selflessness. After graduating from Menahga High School in 1966, Ken went straight into the Navy. During the Vietnam era, he was stationed in California and ranked as an E5. He later attended Bemidji State University. It was during this time that he met the love of his life, Sheila Rae Mattila. Ken and Sheila exchanged vows on August 9th, 1974, in a beautiful ceremony held at Menahga Lutheran Church. Shortly after that, Ken began his career as an engineer in Muncie, Indiana before they moved to Bloomington, MN. It was here where they started their family with the birth of their daughter, Leah Joy in 1982. Ken, Sheila, and Leah returned to Menahga in 1984 where they established a loving home. Tragedy struck when Sheila passed away in 1994. However, life had more happiness in store for Ken. In 1997, he was blessed with his granddaughter, Alyssa. Alyssa brought Ken immense joy. He would call her his “Favorite, Favorite.” Ken embraced his new role wholeheartedly and cherished the moments spent with his grandchild. Alyssa called her Grandpa, the one and only “Bapa.” Family was the center of Ken’s world. He found the utmost joy in spending time with his loved ones and treasured the memories they created together. His warm presence enriched their lives beyond measure. Ken’s family consider themselves blessed to have had him as part of their life for as long as they did. Aside from dedicating himself to his family, Ken found solace and fulfillment in various hobbies. He had a passion for playing cards, tennis, snorkeling and golf. Hunting and fishing provided him with a sense of peace and a connection to nature. Music held a great importance in is his life, as well, from all the years he spent on the road. Ken’s positivity and upbeat outlook on life were uplifting to those fortunate enough to know him. Ken’s legacy extends far beyond his immediate family. He touched the hearts of friends, acquaintances, and all who crossed paths with him. Ken is survived by his child, Leah (Tyler) Mangin; one grandchild, Alyssa Hanninen, Brothers: Bob (Mary) Hanninen, Bill (Susan) Hanninen, Norman Hanninen, and Tom Hanninen and Sister, Kathy Hanson. Ken was preceded in death by his parents, one daughter, Lydia, his wife Sheila, one brother, Steve and one sister, Brenda. Memorial services for Ken will be held on Friday, October 6th, 2023 at Wevley Funeral Home in Sebeka, beginning at 11:00am.