Kenneth Stecklein

Stecklein, Kenneth - Andrew 'Ken' Who died peacefully at home May 22, 2005 surrounded by family after a valiant 2 year struggle with lung cancer. Born August 21,1955, in Minneapolis, MN, Stecklein graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology with both a Bachelor of Science (1977) and Master of Art and Design (1979). He practiced architecture in New York, Florida, New Hampshire, and Minnesota. He was very active in both the International and Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity programs, designing houses and serving on the MN Saint Paul Board in addition to logging many hours on-site. Starting as a parent volunteer, he eventually became a technology support employee for the 621 School District; he won the 2000 Parent Volunteer award. Ken was nationally requested as an employee by Capgemini at their Accelerated Solutions Environment, a unique 'Montessori school for adults' where he worked with major corporations grappling with strategy and operational issues. He was a member and Elder at the Presbyterian Church of the Way in Shoreview, Minnesota. Ken played a key role, including Executive Director, in the development of Reading Rx 501(c)3, a literacy program connecting medical clinics and public libraries. He requested memorials to go to Reading Rx, 475 North Cleveland Avenue, Suite 100B, St. Paul, MN 55104. He is survived by his loving wife Dr. Hilary Pert Stecklein; sons Gordon (18) and Graham (15); and his parents, Dr. John and Helen Stecklein; brothers Mark and Robb Stecklein and sister Beth True; and many dear and wonderful family and friends, especially fellow MIT Delta Tau Delta fraternity brothers. He will be celebrated at a memorial service at PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF THE WAY, 3382 N. Lexington Ave, Shoreview, MN 55126 (651) 484-3346 at 2PM June 5, 2005.

Do not fear death so much, but rather the inadequate life.
Bertolt Brecht (1898-1956).

Published in the Pioneer Press on 5/24/2005.