Kenneth Joseph Krulish Sr.

Born in the Bronx, New York, to Joseph and Bertha Krulish, he joined the United States Navy at 18 and served honorably until 1962. He later worked in civil service at the Naval Aviation Depot in Jacksonville, Florida, retiring after 35 years of dedicated service.

In October 1960, while stationed in Jacksonville Beach, Ken met Marcia Wilder at the USO, where she had brought her records and record player. At the end of the evening, he helped her carry the records to her car, and the two went for coffee. Six weeks later, unwilling to leave for a six-month deployment without marrying her, Ken proposed. They were married on December 9, 1960, beginning a 61-year journey together. Ken enjoyed spending time with family and friends, traveling, and playing card games, especially ones that let him show off his card-counting skills.

Ken and Marcia accepted Christ and were baptized in July 1967. Throughout his life, Ken was a devoted and active member of the Christian Church. He studied the Bible daily, led many Bible study groups, and was passionate about sharing his faith. He encouraged others to discover for themselves what he had found in Scripture.

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Marcia Wilder Krulish, and his two sons, Kenneth Joseph Krulish Jr. and John Joseph Krulish. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Kimberly Krulish Chaney and PJ Chaney; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many other family members and close friends.

A celebration of Ken’s life will be held Friday, June 5 at 2pm at River Christian Church in Fleming Island.

Ken was passionate about supporting faith-based organizations including his local church, River Christian Church, and Johnson University, which is a Christian University located in Knoxville, Tennessee. In lieu of flowers, Ken asked and would be honored if donations are made to these organizations in his name.