SUN CITY WEST, Ariz. — Kenneth Herbert Wadleigh, 90, died Oct. 9, 2009.

He was born June 9, 1919 in Monte Vista to Arthur and Elizabeth (Gius) Wadleigh, and grew up with two brothers, Milton (deceased) and Ronald.

Kenneth graduated in 1941 from Colorado State University with a degree in electrical engineering and Drexel University with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering.

He served his country during World War II. Enlisting in the Army Air Force, he went through officer training, served as a radar officer in the Philippines and England, and attained the rank of First Lieutenant.

He met his beautiful future wife, Beatrice Joan Peters (deceased 2008) on a blind date in Chicago in March 1946. They hit it off right away, sharing many interests including a love of dancing, and married on Nov. 16, 1946. They had two daughters, Deborah Larson (deceased 1998) and Patrice Eller.

In addition to his daughter, Kenneth leaves behind son-in-law, James Eller; grandsons, James Kenneth and Benjamin Matthew Eller; and many nieces and nephews.

Kenneth was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He could fix or build anything. His playful side meant learning to ski with his daughters, camping, fishing, dancing, listening to music, mixing up a good drink for friends and family and watching his favorite cartoons with his kids.

A memorial service will be held Oct. 15 at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Sun City West, Ariz. In lieu of flowers, if desired, memorials may be sent to either St. Mary’s Food Bank Alliance, 2831 N. 31st Avenue, Phoenix, Ariz., 85009-1518 or Lord of Life Endowment Fund, 13724 W. Meeker Blvd. Sun City West, Ariz. 85375.