Kenneth L. "Kenny" Packwood, 75, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2008, at his home near Columbia Falls. He was born July 7, 1933, in Lewiston, Idaho, to Basil T. and Grace M. Packwood. He was raised and educated in Idaho.

Kenny made his living playing country and western music. He was an accomplished lead guitar player. He also worked in landscaping, mechanics and logging. He was a good handyman. He built house signs and chimes to give to family and friends.

For two years, he helped care for his stepmother until she entered a nursing home.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a stepbrother, Richard Marshall.

Kenny is survived by his son, James Beale Packwood, and daughter, Susan Lougee; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; his brothers and sisters, Carl "Buster" Packwood, Laurel Lynch, Edna Ragsdale, Robert Packwood and Lewis Packwood; his stepmom, Norma Choate; stepsisters, Madeline Umphenour and Penny Coon; and a stepbrother, Floyd Marshall.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at the Fellowship Hall in Coram on Coram School Lane. A potluck reception will follow the service.

There will be a wake held May 23 and May 24, at the Wilderness Gateway Campground in Idaho at MMP 122 Highway. Inurnment of the cremains will be in Normal Hill Cemetery in Lewiston, Idaho.

Arrangements are with Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls.