Kenneth L. Cleeves
Kenneth L. Cleeves was called to Heaven on Saturday, January 19, 2024, at the age of 96. He was born on the 7th of September 1927 to Frederick D. and Mary V. (Perrin) Cleeves.
Kenneth was a man who was very devoted to God, the Church and his wife of over 65 years, Geraldine P. Cleeves, who so sadly preceded him in death in 2013.
They were High School sweethearts that were married at Eaton Rapids Baptist Church on Nov. 26, 1947. They became active members of that very Church and raised their family together in Eaton Rapids. In their retirement, Kenneth and Geraldine had moved to Mesa, Arizona to enjoy the warmer weather and there became members of Calvary Baptist Church. They lived the rest of their lives together in Mesa.
Kenneth was also preceded in death by his loving eldest son, Thomas A. Cleeves, and is survived by his other two children, Catherine M. (Lon) Cook and Kenneth J. Cleeves. He was also blessed to have four Grandchildren, Kevin M. Cleeves, Lisa A. (Andrew) Thornsberry, Laura E. Cleeves, Jeremy T. Cook, and seven great-grandchildren, Coya, Leia, Hannah, Thomas, Cassandra, Timothy and Sebastian.
Kenneth’s siblings are all but one deceased, Robert E., Frederick O., Jack D., and Dorothy L. (King). He is survived by his sister, Ruth Ann Thuma of Eaton Rapids, and many nieces and nephews.
Kenneth Cleeves was retired from his career as a Die Designer at General Motors, which he proudly did after his service in the United States Navy, where he served as a Seaman 1st Class on the USS Princeton Aircraft Carrier, during WW2.
Kenneth and Geraldine, lovingly known by friends and family as, ‘Ken and Gerry’ shared a strong love of God, through the Son, Jesus Christ. They often expressed this love through music. Ken played Guitar and Gerry the mandolin, at family gatherings and reunions, churches, State and County Fairs, rest homes, hospitals and rescue missions. They often sang about the love and grace of God or vibrantly played country western and folk music. Their singing brought great joy to others, and we will now carry the sound of their voices in our hearts as we remember them.
Kenneth’s Military Memorial Service was held on February 8, 2024 at his place of burial. He was buried with his loving wife Geraldine at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona, at Cave Creek.
A regular Service will be held at Calvary Baptist Church: 3810 E. University Dr., Mesa Arizona 85205. The date and time will be announced at a later time. To share memories or leave online condolences please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.