Obituary of Kenneth L. Sterling

Kenneth L. Sterling, 55, of Titusville passed away on Sunday, sparing the first deer that would have crossed his path this hunting season. Ken left us peacefully, surrounded by family and proving that he was a class act to the very end. He was a graduate of Titusville High School and the J.H. Thompson Academy cosmetology school in Erie. Ken’s good nature and easy rapport with everyone he met made him a natural in the hair business and he opened Sterling Stylists in 1979 with his sister, Rita. Later on he continued to put those same people skills and more to good use, joining EmergyCare as an EMT, often recognized for his diligence, professionalism, and reliability. Ken was a tireless worker, but was just as passionate about filling his time off with activity. He loved to cook, hunt, and fish. He also loved telling stories and reminiscing about all three. Ken was good with his hands and proved it often, building furniture, remodeling two houses, and taking on other projects with enthusiasm. He leaves behind structures from porches to bridges, all of which will almost certainly outlast us all. Ken served as a volunteer with the Hydetown Fire Department and was also the president of the Hydetown Civic Association for three years. Too good a man for politics, he continued to serve his community as a skilled EMT and all-around good neighbor and good man. He was always there to lend a hand and was happy to share his talents with family, friends, and strangers alike. Ken took that support and compassion abroad on several occasions, traveling with the organization Meeting God in Missions to help those in need in Haiti. Ken made friends wherever he went and is survived by family and loved ones too many to count, including his much-loved wife Celine Sterling; his daughter Amanda West and son-in-law Josh West; son Kenneth F. Sterling; sister Rita Oliver and brother-in-law Dr. J. Richard Oliver; sister Heather Hilburn and brother-in-law John Hilburn; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was also a proud Papa to granddaughter Ava James West, who lit up his face each time he saw her. Help give Ken the send-off he deserves by joining his family this Wednesday at the Gordon B. Garrett Funeral Home 303 N. Washington St. Titusville from 3 to 5 PM and 7 to 9 PM. Services will be held at the funeral home on Thursday at 11:00 AM with Jon Stuck officiating. Those looking to honor Ken’s memory may do so by showing even a fraction of the kindness, enthusiasm, and goodwill that Ken displayed every day of his life. Financial contributions can be made to the Hydetown Volunteer Fire Department (12666 Main Street, Hydetown, PA, 16328) or to the Leukemia Lymphoma Society ( lls.org or by mail at 333 East Carson St, Suite 441, Pittsburgh, PA, 15219). FLOWERS