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Kenneth Lakeman, a devoted father, grandfather, great grandfather, proud heritage keeper, and passionate sports fan, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2026, after a long illness at the age of 89. He leaves behind a legacy of loyalty and unmatched dedication to his family, his friends, and his favorite teams.
Born on December 29, 1936, Kenneth’s life was defined by the people and passions he held dear. He was a great athlete who played football and baseball for Westbury High School and continued playing baseball in men’s leagues for many years. He spent his entire career working for the Long Island Lighting Company (LILCO), dedicating decades of hard work and service to his community. He was a wonderful neighbor who brought warmth, kindness, and a helping hand to everyone on his block. He was also the loving and proud father of Kim, Karin (Tony), and Steve (Tara), who meant the world to him. He was a loving grandfather who supported his grandchildren in all of their endeavors and could frequently be found on the sidelines of their sporting events. He faced his illness with the same resilience he showed throughout his life, supported always by the love of his family and wonderful caregivers. He is now reunited with his beloved wife of 62 yrs, Suzanne, who preceded him in death. Together since they were high school sweethearts, theirs was a true love story.
A true sports enthusiast, Kenneth was known by all for his lifelong, die-hard devotion to the New York Mets and the New York Rangers. Through each season's highs and lows, he cheered them on with boundless energy and stubborn loyalty, a trait that became a defining and beloved part of his personality.
Kenneth was deeply committed to his heritage as a longtime, dedicated member of the Loyal Lodge, Sons of Norway. He and his wife, Suzanne, shared a deep pride in his roots, a highlight of which was a wonderful trip they enjoyed together to Norway. He cherished the cultural traditions, and lifelong friendships he built through the lodge, always embodying their spirit of community service and fellowship.
He is survived by his children, Kim, Karin and her husband Tony, and Steve and his wife Tara; his younger brother, Paul Lakeman (Brenda); his five cherished grandchildren, Kevin (Camille), Steve (Vanessa), Evan (Stacia), Mitch (Tashiana), and Karley (Morgan); and his adored great-grandchildren, Wesley, Elyse, Colter, and Presley. He is also survived by a wide circle of extended family, lodge members, neighbors, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Suzanne, his parents, James and Helen, and his sister Janice.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, located at 315 Lake Shore Road, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY. Burial will follow at St. James Episcopal Church, 490 North Country Road, St. James, NY.
Following the cemetery, a reception will be held at Norway Hall, 201 7th Avenue, St. James, NY, where the family will greet relatives and friends to celebrate Kenneth's life. All are welcome to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Kenneth's name to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 315 Lake Shore Rd, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779.
To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.