Kenneth Paul Saumer, born March 5, 1942, to Herbert and Ruth Saumer, was born in Ortonville, Minnesota, and spent his life developing values of hard work, loyalty, and love for the outdoors. He graduated from Montevideo High School and later proudly served his country in the United States Navy.

After completing his service, Ken carried his sense of dedication and perseverance into his career. He worked as a dispatcher for the Minnesota State Patrol, where colleagues knew him as a steady presence marked by integrity, commitment, and quiet strength.

Outside of work, Ken found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time on the lake, fixing things, cheering for the Minnesota Vikings, volunteering, and visiting with family near and far. Above all, Ken loved his family deeply, and his devotion to those he loved was evident in every part of his life.

Ken is survived by his wife, Peggy; children Michele (Shane), Patrick (David), Megan (Jeffrey), and Andrew (Linda); stepdaughter Jill (Marty); and grandchildren Courteney, Hannah, Ella, Soren, and Kaia. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Ruth Saumer, and by his siblings Betty, Jill, Carol, and Lanny. His legacy of love, service, and steadfast devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church in Brainerd. Family and friends are invited to gather for one hour prior to the service. Interment will take place at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery – Little Falls.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers donations to the Animal Humane Society.