Kenneth Wallace Macumber

Kenneth Wallace Macumber

Of Deposit, NY

Kenneth Wallace Macumber, 80, of Deposit, New York, went home to be with the Lord on January 4, 2025. He passed peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.

Born December 20, 1944, in Gulf Summit, NY, Kenneth was the son of Wallace and Naomi (Geer) Macumber. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Mindy; son-in-law, Butch; his parents, Wallace and Naomi; and siblings Doris Jarvis, Douglas Macumber, Gerald Macumber, Barbara Fike, and Gloria Dailey.

In 1967, Ken enlisted in the US Army, serving in Korea during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home from his active duty, he met the love of his life, Rita Walsh. They were married on April 11, 1970. Together, they shared 54 wonderful years of marriage and raised three children. Ken is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Rita; his children, Jeanne & Owen, Kenneth & Jennifer, and Lorraine Westbrook; and his cherished grandchildren, Amanda, Joey, Kenny, AnneMarie, and Kaitlyn.

Ken is also survived by his siblings Joyce Hafele, Jane Decker, Stanley & Sheila Macumber, Willard & Sylvia Macumber, Cork & Ellen Macumber, Bonnie Barnes, and Dennis & Linda Decker, as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Ken lived a life filled with love and joy. He was an avid deer hunter who loved the outdoors. He often shared funny and memorable hunting stories with family and friends and was always excited about others' hunting successes. One of his proudest moments came on Thanksgiving Day in 1977 when he shot a trophy buck, which still hangs proudly in his den.

During the racing season, Ken was a fixture in the stands at PennCan Speedway on Friday nights and Five Mile Point Speedway on Saturdays. A lifelong racing fan, he never missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite driver, Carl "Bubby" Nagel.

Ken was a true jack of all trades who could often be found in his garage, happily tinkering away. He found joy in lending a hand to anyone in need; his life is a testament to generosity and resourcefulness. Ken cherished time with family and friends, especially over board and card games. Whether he was playing Pinochle or Aggravation, his sharp wit and infectious laughter made every gathering unforgettable. Some of his fondest memories were shared with his Uncle Russell and beloved cousins, Bob and Jane Macumber.

In his later years, Poppy's greatest joy came from his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He loved sitting with them, sharing stories from the past, or enjoying episodes of Andy Griffith and Homestead Rescue. His kindness, gentle nature, and loving heart touched everyone fortunate to know him. Ken's presence will be deeply missed, but the warmth of his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Interment will take place at Laurel Hill Cemetery, and a celebration of Ken's life will be held in the spring, with details to be announced.