Kenneth Alan Minkus, 81, of Ponte Vedra, Florida, passed away peacefully at 4:45 AM on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Baptist Beaches Hospital. Born on December 28, 1943, in Los Angeles, California, he was the beloved son of Jerome and Maurine (Friedman) Minkus and grew up surrounded by the sun and surf of Southern California. Kenneth spent countless hours at the beach with friends, and although he dabbled in golf, his true passion was driven elsewhere.
From an early age, Kenneth demonstrated an astounding aptitude for numbers, often calculating complex equations in his head before others could enter them into a calculator. He shared a close bond with his younger sister, Jerrine, who will forever cherish their shared childhood memories.
After graduating from Birmingham High School in California in 1961, Kenneth dedicated himself to his country by joining the United States Navy, proudly serving from 1961 to 1967. Upon completing his service, he returned to California, where he joined his uncle and Father’s business in the plastics industry, which provided services to esteemed clients like Disney.
In the pursuit of his dreams, Kenneth established International Plastics on January 1, 1990. With 25 years of experience under his belt, he successfully ran the business from his home office for two years before expanding and hiring his first employee in mid-1992. With continuous growth, he moved into a larger office and warehouse, showcasing his company’s motto, “Where service is more than a seven-letter word.” His commitment to excellence was evident in all he did.
In 1994, Kenneth met the love of his life, Nancy, at Rotary Club. Known for his incredible sense of humor, he brought laughter and warmth to every gathering, including the memorable Rotary parties he hosted at their home, where everyone felt welcomed. As a Paul Harris Fellow multiple times over, he remained actively involved in Rotary functions and cherished his time with the organization. Kenneth also found joy in music, trivia, and connecting with friends through bridge, all while showcasing his talent for remembering actors and the roles they played.
He was a very loving, funny and spontaneous husband and man. He loved to surprise Nancy continuously. He truly loved all our family gatherings and playing “Clag” a family card game. He loved Nancy’s crazy Christmas decoration overload, if he could just enjoy it and not have to do the work. He also loved traveling, going on cruises and experiencing different destinations.
Kenneth’s generous spirit extended to his service with the American Legion, the various plastic conventions and tradeshows, and through his notable achievements in support of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm, for which he received a Certificate of Achievement from the Department of the Army. Furthermore, he had the rare distinction of appearing twice on the beloved television show The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, a testament to his lively personality.
He leaves behind a loving family that includes his devoted wife, Nancy Jean Minkus, and six children, Jennifer Lynn and her husband Daniel Zenk of Dayton, Ohio; Jean Ann and her husband Brian Morris of San Antonio, Texas; Jeff Allen Bruchs and his wife Nazie Bruchs of Rancho Mission Viejo; Jamie Minkus of Arizona, Jeremy Minkus of Minnesota and Kerri Anne Minkus of California.
Kenneth is also survived by his sister, Jerrine (Minkus) Rowley, and her husband David Rowley of Central Point, Oregon. He was a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren: Ashley, Alexis, Emily, Connor, Abby, Gage, Kaitlyn, Kylie, Jared, Travis, and two others. Additionally, he was blessed with two great-grandchildren, Elora and Elena, who brought him immense joy.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Jerome and Maureen Minkus, and his granddaughter, Caitlyn Grosclaude.
Funeral services will be held at 1 PM Eastern time on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Ponte Vedra Valley Funeral Home, located at 4750 Palm Valley Rd, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Pastor Richard Cooper will officiate, with elders Joe Zelenka and Jerry Goodman also speaking. A Navy Honor Guard will be present, and interment will follow at Ponte Vedra Palm Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ponte Vedra Presbyterian Church, Tunnels to Towers, St. Jude’s Hospital, Make-A-Wish Foundation, or the American Heart Association.
Kenneth was a loving husband, father, and friend whose spirit and laughter touched the lives of many. His family and friends will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
