Kenneth P. Mortensen, Sr.

ALBANY – Into the loving arms of the Lord, and with his beloved daughter at his side, Kenneth P. Mortensen, Sr., 94, entered eternal life on Friday morning, April 5, 2024.  Ken was the son of the late Peter and Alma (Dascher) Mortensen, and brother of the late Lois M. Gresen and Warren D. Mortensen. He and his late wife Jeanette celebrated 66 years of marriage before her passing in 2022. 

Ken grew up in Glenmont and Selkirk, living in the area all his life. He graduated from Coeymans High School in 1947, worked for New York State for a short period of time, and then joined his father and brother at Mortensen Farm Equipment in Selkirk. In 1957 he joined the Security Supply Corporation in Selkirk. He worked up through the organization, retiring as Manager of the Albany store in 1995.

His greatest love was the New York National Guard. He joined in 1947 and retired as a full Colonel in 1980. He was proud to be a graduate of The Command and General Staff College of the United States Army. What he learned from this Army experience guided the rest of his life.

Ken volunteered at the R-C-S Mens Association for many years. He was very involved in his church, the Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Delmar. At church, Ken was an usher, board member and building fund treasurer. He also was a member of The Board of Trustees for the Bethlehem Rural Cemetery in Selkirk.  Ken loved spending time at Loon Lake in Chestertown. He had many hours of boating pleasure with Jeanette, particularly in his wooden mahogany Century boat called “Little Mutt.” 

He is survived by his son Kenneth P. Mortensen, Jr of Albany (Aydin Tabrizi); his daughter Robin J. Reed  (Patrick) of Chestertown; his nephews  Bruce P. Gresen  and Kevin L Williams; his nieces Kerri Lynn Kimner and Kelly Jean Visker; his brother-in-law Harold L. Williams, Jr.; and by many cousins and grand nephews and nieces.  Ken is also survived by his faithful companion “Snoopy.” Donations in Ken’s memory to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society are appreciated. Ken felt very strongly about this organization.

The family would sincerely like to thank Mandy and her team of caregivers for their kindness and compassion. They took wonderful care of Ken.

A private service will be held in the Bethlehem Lutheran Church, followed by interment next to his wife Jeanette in the Bethlehem Rural Cemetery.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hans Funeral Home, Albany.  To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.