THIEFAULT, Kenneth Raymond 

Was notorious for doing things his way. A resident of Spokane, in 
hockey circles he was known as "Animal". He was a "thinker" 
focusing on theology, philosophy, alternative medicine, business, 
politics and history. Ken passed away on August 4, 2009 at Sacred 
Heart Hospital. 

Early in life Ken showed his love of operating equipment when he 
was on national television for driving a "borrowed" city bus at 
age 9. When asked who taught him to drive at such a young age, he 
explained his 11 year old brother Mike. 

He was a member of the U.S. Army during the early 60's where he 
followed that interest operating jeeps, trucks and tanks. His 
love continued throughout his life in his work as an operating 
engineer manning all types of cranes and heavy equiptment. Ken, 
was also a pilot and certified as a instructor for single, multi 
engines and helecoptors. Ken taught for over 20 years out of 
Felts Field. Doing things his way meant life was exhilarating 
such as cutting the engine during a airplane flight or passing 
people in the left hand lane while driving a crane. 

Ken was an entrepreneur owning and operating several different 
businesses in Spokane and Florida. He was also an avid sports fan 
playing and refereeing hockey for many years, playing softball, 
and helping out at Spokane Raceway Park. He supported his sons 
and nephews in wrestling, hockey and football and his 
granddaughters in basketball and soccer. Most recently he loved 
being with his wife boating and camping. 

Born on October 26, 1940 to Josephine Anne Thiefault (Cooper) and 
Joseph Morris Thiefault I, Ken is survived by his wife Barbara 
Thiefault, his brother Mike Thiefault and wife Sharon, his seven 
children Denise Cully and husband Ron, Melissa Thurman, Sheryl 
Smart and husband Luke, Kenda Bishop and husband Ryan, and 
Barbara Erol Rosa, Joseph Thiefault, and Kenneth Thiefault II and 
his fifteen grandchildren. Ken was a very loyal friend. We will 
miss him dearly and life won't be the same without his views and 
antics. 

Services will be held at Community Bible Chapel at 3506 W 
Princeton in Spokane WA on Tuesday, August 11, 2009. There will 
be a 10 a.m. viewing and 10:30 a.m. service followed by a burial 
at Riverside Memorial Cemetery. A reception will follow. 

Arrangements with SPOKANE CREMATION & BURIAL SERVICE.

Published on 8/9/2009

Spokesman-Review