Kenneth William Novotny, known affectionately as Ken to his friends and family, passed away on July 13, 2024, just two days shy of his 65th birthday. Born on July 15, 1959, in Winner, South Dakota, Ken carried the spirit of his small-town roots throughout his life, and his warm presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. Ken departed this world in Rapid City, SD leaving behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and thoughtfulness.
Ken spent his youth in Winner, SD where the rolling plains and the tight-knit community shaped a man who valued hard work, family, and the simple pleasures of life. After high school, he ventured into the world of logging and soon established himself as a self-employed logger, an occupation that allowed him to indulge his passion for the great outdoors. Ken’s love for nature was evident to anyone who accompanied him to the Black Hills, a place he treasured and respected deeply.
An accomplished woodworker, Ken’s hands were rarely still. His craftsmanship was not only a testament to his skill but also a tangible expression of his love for creating beauty from the raw elements of the earth. His works were more than mere objects; they were stories carved into wood, memories etched into the grains, and heirlooms that would stand the test of time.
Ken’s greatest masterpiece, however, was his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Teresa Novotny, who stood by his side through the ebbs and flows of life. Together, they raised a family that reflected the values Ken held dear. His daughters, Joni (Kevin) Moore and Sadie Silva, and his son, Cory (Staci) Bintliff, will carry forward the lessons of kindness and integrity that their father instilled in them. He also treasured being a grandpa and in the love he showed for his 11 grandchildren and and four great grandchildren. Ken’s brothers, Craig (Toni) Novotny, Dewey (Sharon) Novotny, and Dale Novotny, as well as his sisters, Janet and Debbie Novotny, will remember their brother as a guiding light, a source of unwavering support, and a man who always had time for a laugh or a word of advice.
Ken’s life was a testament to the power of love and the strength of family bonds. He was a man who listened more than he spoke, and when he did speak, his words were laced with wisdom and sincerity. His thoughtful nature was a comfort to his friends and family, and his ability to find joy in the simple things was a lesson in gratitude for all who knew him.
As we bid farewell to Ken, we celebrate a life well-lived, a life filled with purpose, passion, and an abundance of love. While his sudden departure due to a heart attack has left a void that cannot be filled, the memories of his loving spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. Ken’s legacy is not one of material possessions, but one of cherished moments, shared laughter, and the quiet strength of a loving father, husband, brother, and friend.
Ken’s journey on earth has come to an end, but his story will be recounted around campfires, at family gatherings, and wherever the wind whispers through the pines of the Black Hills. His life was a beautiful journey, and though we mourn his passing, we take solace in knowing that Ken lived fully, loved deeply, and left this world a better place.
A traditional service to honor and celebrate Ken’s life will be held at a later date, reflecting on the profound impact he had on those around him. As we gather to remember Ken, we will share the stories that paint a picture of a man who was truly one of a kind, and whose legacy will endure in the hearts of those he touched. Ken’s life was a gift to us all, and for that, we are eternally grateful. Rest in peace, dear Ken. Your love and wisdom will forever be our guide.
Friends and family may sign the online guest register and leave written condolences at WestRiverFuneral.com.
