Kenneth "Scottie" Scott

When reflecting on the life of Kenneth Scott, it is easy to see his unwavering strength and his dedication to those around him. He was a provider for many, and his solid work ethic formed the foundation for all that he did. With a life that spanned an entire century, Ken will be forever remembered by those who knew him best.

It was great to be American during the decade that we commonly recall is the Roaring Twenties. We celebrated milestones like motion pictures in both color and sound and the advancement of the world of flight - led by Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart. There was great celebration in the lives of Clifford and Mildred Scott for a much different reason as they announced the birth of the baby boy they named Kenneth on September 25, 1923.

Growing up, Kenneth was a typical young man of his generation in many ways. He was raised in Allendale, Michigan, alongside his sister, Harriet. Ken’s father ran the family farm while his mother worked as a teacher. Throughout his childhood, Ken helped out on the farm instilling within him the strong work ethic that would be his constant companion. The Scott family enjoyed camping in Yellowstone Park and various Michigan state parks, and they also often went to the World’s Fair in New York. Holidays were spent with members of the extended family where fond memories were made. For his education, Ken attended Coopersville School before moving on to bigger and better things.

New and exciting changes were on the horizon for Ken as the woman who would soon become his wife. The two first met while attending a square dancing event in Hudsonville. Her name was Phyllis Cummings, and there was an instant spark between them. Ken and Phyllis dated for four and a half-years, experiencing so many historical events that shaped our nation in many ways. Throughout that time, their relationship blossomed into something truly special. With a desire to spend the rest of their lives together, Kenneth and Phyllis were married at Calvary Reformed Church in Grand Rapids on August 18, 1950. The newlyweds then enjoyed a honeymoon to both the Badlands National Park and the Yellowstone National park before settling into their Grand Rapids home. They lived on Clancy Avenue for two years before moving to Carpenter Street in Northwest Grand Rapids.

Over the years, Ken’s family grew to include two children. He and Phyllis welcomed their son, Michael, in 1953, followed by David in 1956. Ken provided for his family by working in manufacturing. He also worked for the Kent County Sheriff as a reserve deputy, and he was very good with crowd control at large events. The Scott family enjoyed taking vacations to locations such as Florida and Niagara Falls, and Ken continued his family’s tradition of visiting the New York World’s Fair and Yellowstone National Park at every opportunity. They enjoyed visiting various states’ fairs each year as well. Later in life, Kenneth became a grandfather and even a great-grandfather.

Never one to sit still for long, Ken pursued many hobbies to stay busy in his free time. He enjoyed working at the downtown festivals for the sheriff’s office, and Ken was a skilled crossing guard. He and Phyllis were longtime members of Calvary Reformed Church, and later on, they faithfully attended Common Ground Reformed Church. Ken sang in the church choir and served as a deacon and an elder. He enjoyed listening to gospel music and the hymns, and the Gaithers were a particular favorite of his. Ken liked going to Chinese buffets and the Swan Inn on Alpine. Following retirement, he and Phyllis loved spending weekends at their home in Zephyrhills, Florida. The two were able to travel all around the country and take exotic cruises, and they also enjoyed frequent summer trips to Sandy Pines Campground.

All who knew Kenneth Scott can certainly agree that he understood the secret to a life well lived. A devoted servant to his community, he was always willing to do what he could to serve others, and he was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times. Ken leaves behind a collection of memories that will be forever treasured.

Mr. Kenneth “Scottie” Scott age 100, of Jenison, passed away on October 30, 2023. He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis; and sister, Harriet Headworth. Scottie is survived by his sons, Mike (Geraldine) Scott and Dave (Jayne) Scott; grandchildren, Kelly (David) Klaassen, Tracy (Brad) Cleveringa, Mike (Christine) Scott, Clinton (Zach Hero) Scott, Jacob (Sarah) Scott, Grayce (Matt) Koppey and Willa Scott; 15 great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Ruth (Bernie) Rapp. The funeral service will be held at 11 AM on Monday, November 6, 2023 at Heritage Life Story Funeral Home – Alt and Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW. Visitation will be from 10 AM until the start of the service. Interment in Fairplains Cemetery. Contributions in his memory may be sent to Corewell Health Hospice. Please visit www.heritagelifestory.com to read Scottie’s life story, submit a favorite memory, photo or to sign the guestbook.