March 18, 2025

Linn County News

Published March 19, 2025

Kenneth Lawrence Sloan, age 75, of Centerville, Kan., passed away on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at his home. Kenny was born on Jan. 24, 1950, in Kansas City, Kan., to James and Gertrude (Tebbe) Sloan. He was one of four children in the Sloan family.

Kenny attended St. Joseph Catholic School and worked a variety of jobs throughout his life. He began his career as a trash truck driver and worked in construction before starting his own business, Kenneth L. Sloan Construction. Throughout his career, Kenny was known for being a skilled heavy equipment operator, and his expertise and work ethic earned him a solid reputation in the community.

In addition to his construction business, Kenny was also the proud owner of Sloan Farms. A true “Jack of All Trades;” he had a passion for farming and enjoyed tending to his cattle and attending farm shows. His love for gardening was evident in the pride he took in growing an abundant garden every year, especially his prized tomato plants.

Kenny was also known for his collection of trucks, humorously describing himself as “Truck Poor.” He had a deep love for the machines he collected, and his enthusiasm for them was just another example of his unique spirit. Kenny had a fondness for Crown Royal Whiskey, often enjoying a drink while relaxing with friends and family.

Above all, Kenny’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. He cherished his role as a father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He lovingly referred to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren as his “Big Monsters” and “Little Monsters,” and there was nothing he enjoyed more than being surrounded by their laughter and love.

Kenny is preceded in death by his parents, James and Gertrude Sloan; his son James Sloan; and his brother Tommy Sloan.

He is survived by his wife, Danita, of the home; children; Kenneth Sloan II (Jenny) of Gaylord, Kan., Angie Sloan (Jess) of Sedwick, Kan., Jesyka Stifter (Ryan) of Parker, Kan., and Kristopher Lavy (Emily) of Kansas City, Mo.; his brother Jimmy Sloan (Betsy) of Kansas City, Kan.; and sister Barbara Masters (LD) of Shawnee, Kan.; grandchildren Justin Sloan, Josh Sloan (Kayleena), Jesse Sloan (Megan), Jacob Sloan (Hayley), Cedar Caruso, Brechen Caruso, Makayla Sloan, Cody Sloan, Cooper Sloan, Alex Jones, Abby Jones, Jenah Swearingen and Raygan Stifter; 14 great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Kenneth’s legacy of hard work, love for his family and his many talents will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation and Service were March 14 and 15, both at Eddy-Birchard Funeral Home. Burial at Parker Cemetery.