In Memoriam: Ken Sharp

Ken “Sparky” Sharp was born on September 19, 1940 in Cleveland, Ohio and was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He joined the United States Air Force upon graduating high school and served overseas in Lebanon working with radio controls. After completing his military service, Ken worked for AT&T as an IT developer, receiving numerous awards for his contributions. After retiring from AT&T, Ken worked as a private contractor/consultant traveling throughout the United States on short term assignments performing IT consulting.

Please donate to Ken’s Memorial Wall Plaque.

In 1960 Ken began pursuing his true passion and love of aviation. He worked over the years to earn many special flying certifications including: Private, Commercial, Instrument, Multi-Engine Land, Ground Tow Test, Commercial Glider, Flight Instructor, Instrument Instructor and Glider Instructor. Ken was a highly respected aviation advisor to the aviation community and served as a member of the Civil Air Patrol and Experimental Aircraft Association to name a few.

Ken became the first resident in a Fly-In Community neighborhood at Deerfield Landing. Ken was very involved with his church over the years, and was known for his special home baked cookies, bread, and cornbread. In his later years, Ken delivered cookies made from scratch weekly to the postal carrier, pest control technician, banker teller, dog groomer, Sunday school class and anyone who crossed his path! These acts of kindness earned him the title, “The Cookie Man”. Ken also made the best lasagna you have ever tasted and friends and family often requested a special batch of “Sparky’s Lasagna" or his holiday cheese carrots, as well.

Some of the other things Ken loved were history, trains, traveling, beautiful scenery and hiking. At home Ken was an avid reader, reading a minimum of 1 to 3 books a week, history was his favorite subject to read. Ken also was a skilled knitter and often knitted blankets for loved ones. He enjoyed listening to classical music. He also loved traveling to admire Gods beautiful Earth with a special appreciation for scenic views and historic locations. Ken loved to go on hiking adventures and hiked parts of the Appalachian Trail over the years. Ken was a devoted runner and participated in countless 5K races. He continued to walk up to 4 miles a day until his passing. He was known to always have his camera on hand at special events. He was rarely caught on film because he was the one recording or videoing holidays, family gatherings, special events or a beautiful sunset.

Ken was known as the one who was going to show up for his family and friends. Many have shared stories about how he never missed a wedding, hospital visit, funeral, birthday, graduation, or special event, and of course, he had a camera around his neck ready to capture the moments.

Ken left a wonderful legacy and will be missed greatly.