Kenneth D McKean

Kenneth Donnell McKean, lovingly known to family and friends as “Ken,” was born on August 23, 1960, in San Mateo, California, to the late Verna Mae McKean and Ernest McKean, Sr., at San Mateo General Hospital. During his early years, the McKean family lived in Oakland and Menlo Park before settling in East Palo Alto, where Ken spent most of his childhood, teenage years, and adult life. East Palo Alto was more than his hometown—it was part of his identity, and he proudly represented it wherever he went. Ken attended Garden Oaks Elementary School, where he completed the eighth grade, and later graduated from San Carlos High School. Following his passion for cooking, he began a career as a chef at the Palo Alto Fish Market, where he enjoyed preparing meals and serving others. Anyone who knew Ken knew that he was full of life. He loved music, laughter, and spending time with family and friends. One of his favorite places in the world was the front yard of his longtime home on Fordham Street, where he could usually be found sitting outside, greeting neighbors and joking with everyone who walked by. His playful personality and unforgettable pickup lines became legendary, often stopping passersby with, “Hey, you dropped something.” When they looked around, he’d smile and say, “Conversation. Want to pick it up and talk about it?” Ken never met a domino game he didn’t enjoy. He played with enthusiasm, slamming each domino onto the table while talking enough trash to make everyone laugh. Though he acted like the biggest guy in the room, his family knew they might have to rescue him once the competition got a little too serious. He also loved playing cards—and if there was an opportunity to bend the rules just a little, Ken was convinced it was all part of the game. His sense of humor, quick wit, and unforgettable sayings kept those around him smiling. Whether he was making someone laugh, telling stories, or simply enjoying the company of loved ones, Ken had a way of making ordinary moments memorable. On June 23, 2026, Kenneth answered God’s call and entered into eternal rest. He was preceded in death by his parents, Verna Mae McKean and Ernest McKean, Sr.; his siblings, Alma Campbell, Ernest McKean, Jr., Joann McNack, Ronnie McKean, and Bonnie McKean. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved daughter, Dominique Williams; his sister, Lois McKean; his brother, Dana McKean; his Godmother, Ophelia Wilson; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by his love, laughter, and unforgettable spirit. Though Ken’s physical presence will be deeply missed, his laughter, jokes, stories, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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