Kenneth Wayne McCuen, affectionately known as Kenny to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, in Nodaway, Iowa. Born on July 31, 1946, in Villisca, Iowa, Kenny lived a full life marked by dedication, hard work, and a generous spirit.
Kenny grew up in Nodaway and attended local schools until the consolidation, after which he graduated from Villisca High School in 1963. His strong work ethic was evident from a young age as he juggled multiple paper routes and helped carry coal to Nodaway residents. Kenny was always willing to lend a helping hand, a trait that would define his character throughout his life.
After serving his country in the Army, Kenny discovered his passion for construction while working for Wiechman's Construction. It wasn't long before he started his own business, where he honed his skills and took pride in building with his hands. His career took him to Colorado in 1979, where he worked for Marantha Construction on large projects, including shopping centers and correctional facilities, for ten years. Kenny returned to Iowa in 1989 and joined Oakview Construction, eventually becoming a project superintendent. His work on Farm Credit buildings across Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota was a testament to his dedication and expertise. Even after a short-lived retirement, Kenny couldn't stay idle for long and continued to work for BCI, as well as assisting family and friends with their home projects.
He enjoyed being surrounded by family during the holidays and was proud he was present during the birth of his 3 grandkids: Malakai Kane Calhoun in 1991, Tierney Dakota Sothman in 1996, and Teaguen Gunner Sothman in 2001. He enjoyed seeing them play sports, perform at dance recitals, and watching them grow into adulthood.
Kenny's interests were as robust as his work ethic. He was known for his love of working on cars, embracing the mantra “the louder, the faster, the better.” Wrestling captivated him nearly as much as his time spent on Facebook, where he enjoyed connecting with others. His companionship with his dogs, Jasper and later Chance, brought him immense joy, as did his interactions with the numerous friends he made over the years.
He leaves behind a legacy of kindness through his beloved family, including his wife, Monica (Candy) McCuen of Nodaway, Iowa; daughters Malena Kaye (Rod) Sothman of Cumberland, Iowa, and LaVonne Mae Parker of Nodaway, Iowa; grandchildren Malakai Kane Calhoun, Tierney (Josh Crum) Sothman, and Teaguen (Morgan DeBuhr) Sothman; sister Arlene Raines of Stanton, Iowa; sister-in-law Anne McCuen of Villisca, Iowa; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss his selfless nature and generous heart.
Kenny's life was one of unwavering service to others, a reflection of the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” His legacy is not only in the structures he built but also in the lives he touched with his kindness and generosity. Kenny will be remembered as a devoted family man, a loyal friend, and a master of his craft, whose memory will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Those we love don't go away,
They walk beside us every day.
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
so loved, so missed, so very dear.
