Kenneth Switzer Obituary

Kenneth E. Switzer

One of the few good men and genuine cowboys, Kenneth Switzer, age 90, passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, August 21, 2019, while holding the hand of LaNell, his devoted wife for over 65 years. 

Kenneth was born on July 27, 1929, in McLean, Texas, the youngest boy in a family with eight children. As a child, he enjoyed bike rides, hunting, and regular family dinners. His father passed away when he was 14, and his mother took a second job so he could complete school. His happiest childhood memory was when two of his older brothers returned home safely from World War II. 

He married LaNell DeBusk on February 17, 1953. Together, they raised daughters LaJo O’Brien and Maxine Muecke. They also helped parent several of their nieces and nephews, including Bryce, Bill, Tonya, and Audie DeBusk, as well as David Wilkinson and Gene Fenton. Kenneth was a strong, loving father and mentor, and when asked for parenting advice, he simply said: “Be consistent in discipline and be sure they know you love them!” 

He was a humble man who believed in the value of hard work and responsibility. Throughout his life, Kenneth was admired and respected by his employers and coworkers. His passion was working with horses including Haskell Bert, Leo Bingo, Canadian Gold, and world champion Tarzan Dude. He was employed as a cowboy and horse trainer, a janitor, a driver for Napa, and the world’s greatest babysitter to his four beloved grandchildren: Lindsey Muecke, Rachael Parrish, Dr. Blake O’Brien, and Emily Schoolcraft. More recently, he also helped care for his first great-grandson, Jace Michael Parrish. One of his highest delights in life was getting to spend time with his prized great-grandchildren: Triston, Carter, Jace, and Kyndal Parrish. 

Kenneth was kind, dependable, and tenderhearted. He served as a regular volunteer at Prarie Vale Elementary where daughter LaJo taught the Preschool Class. He had a profound impact on several students who made great learning progress while gaining a new friend. 

Kenneth was an avid reader who enjoyed walking with friends, playing dominos, working with kids, country dancing, baking his famous chocolate chip cookies, and getting to know the people at Virginia’s Café. He and LaNell have been blessed with many wonderful and dependable friends, including Buster McDaniels, Virginia Smith, and Randi Kaye Huffman, who made caring for Kenneth after his stroke part of their daily routine. 

Although Kenneth Switzer has gone home to be with Jesus, he will not be forgotten here. His life and legacy will continue to impact others for several generations. He was a quiet family man with strong character and a resilient spirit who helped to shape and influence so many lives. He is deeply loved and admired, and he will always be remembered affectionately by his surviving wife, children, nieces and nephews, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and close friends. We were blessed and honored to know him and it is difficult to say goodbye. 

The funeral service is scheduled for 2:00 on Saturday, August 24, 2019, at Barnes and Friederich Funeral Home in Midwest City, Oklahoma. Pastor Bob Rutherford will officiate. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Deer Creek Severe/Profound Special Needs Program, 2601 Northwest 234th Street, Edmond, OK 73025.

*Written by Lindsey Muecke with final editing assistance from Maxine, LaJo, and LaNell.
Official Obituary and Tribute Wall can be found HERE.