Kenneth Lloyd Mergenthaler passed away Thursday January 8th 2015 from a sudden heart attack. Ken was born on July 3rd, 1956 to Lloyd and Teddy Mergenthaler. Ken was the first born of 4 boys, David, Mike and Greg, followed by a little sister Kathy. Ken was also the first baby delivered by Dr Whitesitt in Helena. Ken had a fascination for things with motors. In high school while working at the local Texaco station, his racing friends and him would travel to Lewistown on the weekends with all their tools, tires, jacks, and equipment to race for two days, hoping that they wouldn’t break anything bad enough that they couldn’t make it home. Ken met Walt Sullivan in the mid 70’s and began a friendship that would have them traveling across the state looking for the next “diamond in the rough” Ford Mustang. Ken was a firm believer in the saying “ I would rather push a Ford than drive a Chevy! Ken met the love of his life Sue McAllister, while attending the Helena Vo-tech. He was taking auto mechanics classes. Sue was taking accounting classes, and just happened to do the accounting for the auto mechanics class. Ken and Sue married on March 10th 1979. Sue stood by his side through thick and thin for 35 years. Ken began his firefighting career in 1985 when he joined the Eastgate Volunteer Fire Department. Shortly after joining he became an assistant fire chief to Kenley Goodian and was voted in as fire chief after Goodian moved away and held that position until his death. Instead of sitting home alone until all hours of the night, Sue took an active role also in the fire department alongside Ken. Doing everything from cooking huge meals to being a trustee. Ken was one of a handful of people who had the vision for an organization called Mutual Aid. Eastgate has hosted Montana Mutual Aid since 1997. Ken enjoyed Emergency Services so much that he dispatched for the Montana Highway Patrol and DNRC Wildland fires for over 15 years. Ken believed that there was a brotherhood among firemen and grew to believe there was a larger brotherhood among all emergency services personnel. The racing bug bit Ken again late in life when “Blast from the Past began drag racing in Helena one Sunday a year. The old Mustang was pulled out of retirement and back out on the track. Ken wasn’t going to do it alone so high school friend and racing companion Rob St.Clair was contacted and the racing team was back in action. One of Ken’s favorite signs hung outside of Lee’s Speed Shop In Great Falls, “Speed costs, how fast do you want to go?”
Ken was not only the Fire Chief he was a father figure, a brother, a mentor, a teacher and a friend.
Ken always had a deep love for his parents, making sure to talk to them most every day. After Ken’s dad had heart difficulties Ken and his Dad began a night ritual of recapping the day’s events regarding the fire department, family, friends and current events. Lloyd has always been one of Ken’s biggest supporters.
Ken was loved but especially by his nephews, great nephews, nieces and great nieces that thought he was a true hero.
Ken had a special bond with his Boston Terrier Chief. They were inseparable. Where one was so was the other, didn’t matter what time of day or night.
Ken is preceded in death by his nephew Kevin Mergenthaler and his mother Teddy Mergenthaler.
Service Schedule
Viewing
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday January 13, 2015
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday January 14, 2015
Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds
98 West Custer Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Service
Wednesday January 14, 2015
Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds
98 West Custer Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
Burial
3:00 p.m.
Wednesday January 14, 2015
East Helena City Cemetery
East Helena , Montana 59635
Service Schedule
Viewing
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Tuesday January 13, 2015
Retz Funeral Home
315 E. 6th Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Wednesday January 14, 2015
Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds
98 West Custer Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
Reception
Following the Service
Wednesday January 14, 2015
Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds
98 West Custer Avenue
Helena , Montana 59601
Burial
3:00 p.m.
Wednesday January 14, 2015
East Helena City Cemetery
East Helena , Montana 59635
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Camie says
Sue and family
We are so sorry to hear about Ken. There are no words to ease your hurt and we are here if you need anything.
Camie and Mike
Kevin and Roxanne Ore says
Sue,
We are deeply sadden by the news of Kens passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We will forever cherish all the memories we have of Ken.
Kevin and Roxanne Ore
Brenda and Ron Deyerle says
Sue and family. Ron and I are so deeply sorry to hear about Ken you are in our thoughts and prayers. Ken’s passing is a loss to so many he will be greatly missed. Ron and I will always cherish the great memories and good times that we shared.
Brenda and Ron Deyerle
April and Tyler Bogy says
Sue and family!
I am so very sorry to hear of Ken’s passing today. It came as such a shock when I received the phone call and all I wanted to do was wrap my arms around you and hold you. Instead I ask that our heavenly father lift you and your family up right now and keep you close to his heart, hold each of you tight and comfort you during this difficult and trying time. May his loving arms bring you the strength and support to know that you are loved and not alone. My family is here for you and if you need anything and I truly mean anything, please let me know. Prayers, blessings, love , endurance, and strength over you all right now.
Love,
The Bogy Family
Claudia E. Thomas says
Condolences on your loss Sue and family. There’s a special place in Heaven for such people as this. I pray you are comforted during these days of earthly sorrows, knowing Kenny now soars with the angels in a place of perfect peace and where you will see him again one day.
Love & Blessings,
Claudia
Larry & Marilyn Bean says
Our sincere condolences. Ken was a dear friend and no doubt will be very missed by all he knew.
Rusty Gustine says
We are so sorry for the loss of Ken, he was truly a great man and inspired many people whose lives he touched, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at his time, Ken may be gone but he will never be forgotten. Rusty, Teresa, Angie and Adam
Angie Gustine says
Sue, Family, and our East Gate Fire Department Family,
My heart is breaking for all of you. I will always remember the great talks Ken and I had, and all the times he was there for our family, from Adam being hurt fighting a fire in the North Valley to Ken’s great sense of humor when my dad fell down the stairs…always a warm smile, a hug and something to make you laugh! My sincere condolences to everyone…gone but NEVER forgotten…such a great loss to our community. My thoughts and prayers are with you….Rest in Peace Chief, until we meet again!
Marc & Brenda Rogelstad says
Words cannot express the sorrow felt at hearing of the loss of Ken. He was a friend and colleague in years past but never forgotten. May Gods peace bless and comfort you and Know that Chief Mergenthaler has now arrived at Station Heaven and is now on duty 24/7/365 watching over us.
Kathy Kroll says
I am so,so sorry Sue for yor loss. I truly do not have the words. Ken was so good to us in the 911 dispatch center. He would hear us on the radio and call in and tell us we were doing a good job, or hear something in our voice and call to see if we were alright. He never forgot us during the holidays. I will so miss him.
Lynn Svir says
On behalf of Helena’s Hospitality Community, please accept our deepest condolences for your loss. The entire Mergenthaler family will be in our thoughts and prayer. My heartfelt sympathies to you all.
Daniel & Tilly Pocha says
Hugs to you Sue. I can’t even imagine what you’re going through right now. We were shocked and extremely sadden to hear the loss of Ken. I know there are no words we could tell you that will comfort you right now. Hold all of Ken precious memories close to your heart. We want you to know you are in thoughts and prayers. Ken had such a fun loving kind heart. His laughter and great sense of humor it truly going to be missed, not just by us, but everybody that was lucky enough to have met or have Ken as a friend. Lots of Love to you Sue, May the great sprits help you stay strong during this time of need, Aho Daniel & Tilly
Tom Naegele says
Mergenthaler Family,
Prayers of Support and Sympathy. Ken gave so much to his family and community, he will be missed.
Pam Bovee says
To all of the Mergenthaler families; My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.
Laura & George Glueckert says
Sue – I am so sorry for your loss! Ken was a wonderful man! You and Ken’s family are in our prayers! God has a way of keeping our loved ones with us thru memories! Hugs and lots of love!
Gary & Loretta Burnham says
Sue; Words cannot even begin to express our sadness for Ken’s loss. He was such a great man with a such a big heart who blessed so many people throughout his life and he will be sorely missed. May those many special memories comfort you now and always. You and all the family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sylvia Stevens says
Sue, I am sorry to hear of your loss. you and your family are in my prayers. Ken will truly be missed. He was an angel here on earth.
Greg Mergenthaler says
Heaven has a new Fire Chief. I have lost my big Brother Ken. I will see you on the other side of the vail. Give Mom a hug and kiss for me. Until we meet again…God speed Kenner.
Joe&Donna Murgel says
We are so sorry to hear of Kens passing .He was a good man and will be missed .I remember growing up with him in East Helena and one thing we had in common is we were born on the same day July 3 1956
Hillaire Troyer says
Sue,
I can’t even imagine your loss. I am so very sorry. Mike Harvey and I were just talking about you, Ken and Chief on Friday. Saying what an amazing team you were and how much we just loved that little Chief. I was going to call him on Monday afternoon and see how you all were. My heart aches for you and your family. Ken was one of kindest men I have ever know. He helped me check one of my things on my bucket list and that was to ride in a Fire Engine and he toured my family and I around the Fire House. He helped me immensely with my ill husband. He was one of the most giving and kindest man I have ever met. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Rev 21:3,4 He will be GREATLY Missed xoxoxo
Carla Tevis says
Sue I am so sorry for your loss, when it comes to just plain old good people Ken was right at the top
Lori Rowe says
Sue,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Ken. You and your family are in my heart and prayers. Ken will truly be missed.
Dave mason says
Sue and your wonderful family,
My sincere condolences to you all. Ken’s passing leaves a huge void in all our lives. Ken’s influence, compassion, and wisdom will impact Montana’s emergency services for decades. I feel blessed to have had Ken as a friend and mentor for so many years. No one could match his ability to figure out the right thing to do given any circumstance. He always put others ahead of his own needs and always went the extra mile to do for others what he knew was the “right thing”. My favorite story that illustrates Kenny’s priorities: Ken and Sue were out hunting on their uncles ranch one day when they got stuck. In the process of jacking up the pickup, the jack handle came out of the jack and whacked Ken on the eyeball. On the ambulance ride to St. Pete’s, he called and asked me to come meet the ambulance to make sure Sue was OK. He was more concerned with her welfare than the real possibility of loosing his eye! What a wonderful and amazing man!
Ron Pearson says
Sue and family,
I was stunned to hear the news of Ken’s passing. I am so sorry for your loss. Ken and my paths have crossed over and over thru the years since he started with the fire service. He ALWAYS made a point to say “hello, how are you doing” and so as I with him. He was and will always be one of the great people. He will be missed by us all very much.
Dan McGowan says
Sue:
WOW – what a shock!! Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. Ken was a good friend and valued colleague. I will miss our typical bear hug greeting and, of course, the line of BS that followed. May the Good Lord wrap his arms around you and guide you through this stressful moment in life.
Janae Grotbo says
Sue,
I am so sorry to hear of Ken’s passing. May God wrap his arms around you during this difficult time.
Please let me know if there is anything you need.
Janae
Debbie Pascool says
Sue,
So sorry to hear of Ken’s passing. Lost of our love ones, is the hardest pain to carry in or hearts. I could never begin to understand your grief. Know that my heart felt thoughts are with you. May God’s love keep you strong. Debbie
Cindy & Ken Rosenbaum says
Sue, So very sorry to hear about Kens passing. I remember Ken from when I (Cindy) worked at Shopko. Even if Ken saw me in a different store he would always say hi to me. He was a very sweet man. Sue you are in our prayers . May The Lords comforter be with you. Cindy & Ken
jerry & joanne friedsam says
Ken was a good neighbor & friend. Always there to help you ideas & suggestions too. He will be missed in our neighbor hood & fire dept. joanne & jerry
Jim and Betsy Phillips says
Sue and family,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. His life eneded to early, but just remember, God has a plan for all of us and He needed Ken for more importanat work. Remember the good times, the rest doesn’t matter. Betsy
Denise and Bill says
We have had the privilege to have spent time Ken and Sue as friends and fellow Mustang lovers. He has been an inspiration, role model and friend to so many. Ken could be found soaking up the shade at car shows with Sue and Chief by his side. Even though he has had more surgeries than most people, it was always me he left in stitches with his corny jokes and amusing stories. I loved him for making me laugh. Ken always shared a smile even when things were not always great. We will miss him dearly and will not forget him. Sue, you are in our hearts and prayers.
Neil & Denise Brunett says
Sue and Family,
Denise and I will always remember the kindness and friendship we all had. He and I shared a special bond when I was a MHP Officer. When I was new to the area we had the privilege of living in your back yard. I still am sorry about our dog digging your sprinkler heads up. Our dog was having such a good time! Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Love, Neil & Denise
David Blade says
I just had the honor to sound the 24 notes of “Taps” for Chief Ken as friends and family gathered to say goodbye. We served as Dispatchers together at Montana Highway Patrol, and was sad to hear of his passing. I was glad I knew this man with his great heart for service to the people of Montana.
With my respects to his family, Dave
JoAnne Olds says
Dear Sue, Today I learned of Kens passing and was deeply saddened. Unfortunately I know how you feel and my heart goes out to you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Most sincerely, JoAnne Olds (Tom)
jerry & joanne friedsam says
Ken was a great person & good friend. I will miss him as alot of others will too. Joanne & jerry
Gary & Marcia Luther says
So sorry to hear about Ken. Heart goes out to family. Many good memories were had with the Mergenthaler family.
LYNN & Anita Buchanan says
SUE So sorry for your loss. Ken will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know him.
LYNN & Anita Buchanan MPH 260 rtd
Carla Pogson says
My sincere condolences to you and your family. I met Sue and Ken when they purchased my motorhome, it made me happy for it to go to a lovely couple. So very sorry again Sue for your lose.
Take care
Carla Pogson
Newport WA
Now in Creston BC