Kenneth Fred Byington

Kenneth Fred Byington, a resident of Farmington, Missouri, departed this life on April 5, 2025, at the age of 91. Born on October 9, 1933, in St. Louis, Missouri, Kenneth lived a life rich in experiences, marked by both personal and professional achievements.

Kenneth was a veteran of the United States Navy, proudly serving during the Korean era. Upon his return to civilian life, he made a significant impact in the telecommunications industry as a computer field engineer and was notably one of the first engineers for Motorola. His career exemplified his dedication to excellence, reflecting a smart, meticulous, and mechanically inclined nature that characterized his entire life.

Beyond his professional life, Kenneth was known for his storytelling prowess. He captivated family and friends with tales of his adventures and accomplishments, painting vivid images of his experiences. His strong-willed, honest and opinionated personality endeared him to many.

He particularly enjoyed a fishing trip to Canada and demonstrated a spirited adventurism by camping for ten days in the mountains at the age of 82, accompanied by his nephew, Kenny.  He also loved horseback riding in his earlier years and remained active by riding five miles a day on his stationary bike until just a few weeks before his passing. He attended Three Crosses Cowboy Church where he enjoyed the fellowship amongst his fellow members of the congregation.

Kenneth is survived by his daughter, Samantha (fiancé, Glenn Martin) Byington of Arnold; stepchildren, Edward Schiavi of Albuquerque, NM, Jacqueline (husband, Hank) Schaper of Marthasville, and Brenda (husband, Fred) Lee of St. Clair; as well as numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends who will remember him with affection.

He was predeceased by his parents, Fred Charles and Helen Mae (Jacobs) Byington; his beloved wife, Beverly (Fratamico) Byington; and his brothers, Charles Byington and Vernon Byington.

A memorial gathering to honor Kenneth's life will be held on  Friday, April 11, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, followed by a memorial service with full military honors at 6:00 PM officiated by Pastor Michael McGee at Cozean Memorial Chapel and Crematory, located at 217 West Columbia Street, Farmington, MO. Private inurnment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to Three Crosses Cowboy Church, 8231 Sage Drive, Bonne Terre, MO 63628. View the video tribute, share your condolences and memories at cozeanfuneralhome.com.