Dr. Kenneth E. Richie

of Hanover, MN, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 in his winter retreat in Bentonville, AR on the 1st of April, 2025. Born on the 15th of May, 1938 in St. Paul, MN, Ken lived a life filled with intellect, passion, generosity, and deep love for his family and community.

He is survived by his sister, Deb Pedersen; his former wife, Barbara Richie; and his children: Kenneth Richie Jr., Tamara Barnaal, Laura Kranitz (Christopher), and Valerie Maddock (Daniel). He leaves behind his treasured grandchildren: Jacob Barnaal (Racheal), Zachary Barnaal, Kayla Lien (Ryan), Marisa Kranitz (JT Miller), and Hazel Maddock; and great-grandchildren: Addelynn Lien, Alice Miller, Kenna and Macie Barnaal. Ken is preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Teresa Richie; his beloved granddaughter, Kristine Richie; and other cherished family members.

A lifelong athlete, Ken was passionate about martial arts and swimming, and was a collegiate athlete during his undergraduate years at Hamline University. After graduation, he moved his young family to California, earning his PhD in Physics at UCLA. Ken's professional career was marked by innovation and leadership. While living in Chicago, he worked at Continental Can, where he led a team that helped develop the base of plastic bottles, which is now ubiquitous.

He played an active role in founding the Hinsdale, IL community center and children's swim team, fostering a legacy of community and youth engagement. The family later returned to Minnesota, settling in a beautiful lake home in Maple Grove where memories were made and dreams were nurtured. Ken served as Vice President of Marketing at Fingerhut Corporation, where he was instrumental in expanding the company’s direct-to-consumer reach, laying the groundwork for modern home shopping networks.

Upon retirement, Ken and Barbara created a warm, welcoming home on land in Corcoran, MN, which became the heart of countless family gatherings, swim parties, and joyful moments. Every grandchild learned to swim in their pool, under Ken’s proud watch. Ken’s generosity knew no bounds. He was a tireless advocate for individuals with special needs, a cause deeply personal to him after the loss of his granddaughter Kristine to Sanfilippo Syndrome. He continued supporting affected families long after her passing, always hoping for a cure.

His charitable giving was wide and heartfelt, including support for animal welfare, wildlife preservation, children's health, education, humanities, veterans services, and Native American causes. Ken had a lifelong love of animals, especially his beloved German Shepherds—Steffi, Wolf, Loba, Dakota, Sierra, and Kara—and his puggle, Kaydee. All but Kaydee and Kara have passed who remained faithfully by his side until his final moments.

Ken loved to travel. From US Road trips, by car and RV to international travel, he experienced culture to the fullest. He traveled to Paris, Egypt, the Carribbean and Mexico. By boat, car or plane, he was always ready to go. He traveled to all 50 US states and immersed himself in the culture. but clearly his favorite place was hiking with his dogs in Arkansas.

Above all, Ken will be remembered for his immense heart, brilliant mind, and steadfast devotion to his family. As his son, Ken Jr., often says, “We had a fantastic upbringing. We couldn’t have asked for better parents.” Ken's legacy will live on in the lives of all those he touched—with his love, his laughter, and his endless belief in the potential of others.

Visitation Friday, April 25th, 5–8 PM, at Gearty-Delmore Chapel 3888 W. Bdwy Ave. Robbinsdale 55422. Memorial Service Saturday, April 26th, 11 AM, at Gearty-Delmore Chapel, Robbinsdale. Visitation 1 hr. prior to service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the National MPS Society.