Kenneth P. McCandless, age 80, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at The Laurels of Mount Vernon. He was born on August 16, 1944, in Canton, Ohio, to the late Kenneth and Mary McCandless.
Kenneth served his country with honor in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. He retired in 2008 after an exceptional 47-year career as a draftsman and designer with Rolls-Royce, where he was respected for his precision, creativity, and dedication to excellence.
Beyond his professional life, Kenneth gave generously of his time to others. He was a dedicated volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters, where his mentorship made a lasting impact. He had a lifelong love of photography and travel, passions that reflected his curiosity and appreciation for the world around him.
Kenneth was also an active member of several civic and veterans’ organizations, including the Elks Lodge, Colonial City Moose, Eagles, Amvets Post #95, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. His friendships through these groups were a meaningful part of his life.
He is survived by his sister, Karen (David Buck) McCandless-Buck, nephew, Conrad Kenneth (Meghan Hammack) Buck, great nephews, Benjamin David Buck, Jackson Charles McCandless Buck, Maxwell Samuel Buck and Harrison Michael Conrad Buck.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Snyder Funeral Home – Lasater Chapel in Mount Vernon, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Kenneth’s memory to Gentiva Hospice, 112 Harcourt Road Suite 3, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050.
To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, visit www.snyderfuneralhomes.com
The Snyder Funeral Home, Lasater Chapel is honored to serve the family of Kenneth P. McCandless.
Funeral Home: Snyder Funeral Home, Lasater Chapel
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com