- Date Of Birth: December 31, 1948
- Date Of Death: March 12, 2022
- State: Iowa
Kenneth Dale Danilson, 73 of Woodward, IA passed away due to pancreatic cancer March 12, 2022 with his wife Jan and son Kelly by his side. He was preceded in death by his parents Gail and Mary Danilson and niece Neysa.
Ken graduated from Woodward-Granger High School in 1967. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marines Corp and served two tours in Vietnam from 1967-1970. He held Bachelor of Science degrees from Iowa State University in political science and history and retired as president and director of Worldwide Credit Services, PHI Financial Services (a subsidiary of Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.) in Johnston, IA, in 2009. His work at PHI allowed Ken to travel around the world. During his career, he served as vice-president of the Iowa division of the First Interstate National Bank; vice president, Agricultural Loan Officer, Citizens National Bank; and county supervisor, Farmers Home Administration, USDA.
A 1966 American Legion Boys State graduate, he served The American Legion at the department and post level, and was on several national committees. Ken was an American Legion Member for over 50 years and served 27 years on the National Finance Commission. Of those 27 years, he served 17 as chairman-making him the longest serving National Finance Commission chairman in American Legion history.
Ken and Jan (Pelham) met at Iowa State University and were married nearly 51 years. They enjoyed the adventure of traveling especially going on an African safari, backpacking in Italy, dogsledding in Minnesota and taking a family trip to Disneyland. Living on and caring for the Danilson century farm was a source of pride for Ken. He enjoyed raising cattle, fishing with the grandchildren on the pond, and taking the dogs for rides in the farm truck. In the last ten years, Ken and Jan made it their legacy to transform the farm into a wildlife habitat. Ken strived to find the best way to help others and encouraged his family to volunteer and make a positive impact in whatever they do.
Ken cherished his family and was always sharing how proud he was of them. He loved playing Star Wars Trivia, watching Jeopardy, taking the kids on rides in the gator, and attending the Iowa State Fair with the family. Lots of memories were made and stories told!
Ken is survived by his wife Jan, son Kelly (Jessica) and grandchildren Kyle, Bryce, Grant, Jaia and Nash. Ken was usually seen wearing a baseball cap and the family would be honored if people would bring a favorite cap or hat to the service.
