Major Keneth E. Wygal USMC (Ret) Resident of Concord Died March 27, 2009 in Concord , CA, surrounded by family after a long battle with cancer. Survived by wife, Peggy; daughters Susan Blatz and Diane Wygal; grandchildren Jamie Wise and Charlie Blatz; great-grandson Justin Wise; stepsons Michael Wood and Mark Wood; and many close Wygal family members. Ken was born October 1, 1920 in the cotton fields of Blythe, CA. His family moved to the Concord -Martinez area in 1923 and he called it home for all of his life. His graduation from Alhambra High in 1939 left him with life long friends and he assisted with many reunions of the group. He joined the Marines in July 23, 1942 and served in the Pacific Theatre. When he was discharged he realized he missed the Corps and re-enlisted. He served in the Air Wing in Korea, Japan, North Carolina, Hawaii and Vietnam until retiring December 1, 1965 from Alameda, CA. He was very proud that he started as a private and retired as a Major. Ken became a realtor and worked in Contra Costa and San Joaquin Counties from 1965 to 1999. He enjoyed both commercial development and helping people with residential transactions. Ken loved to travel and to fish. He combined both with many trips with the family to Eagle Lake for trout and Point Arena abalone. Going out in the RV with family or friends was a frequent and favorite time. He planned short and long trips with his wife alone or with others. Wherever he went, he met new people easily. Clutch- busters square dance club became a source of some of his closest friends. Not only did he enjoy the dancing, but the campouts and picnics were special times. Always someone to talk with, laugh with, play cribbage with and hug. As much as Ken enjoyed his friends, the most important thing to his was his family.

Contra Costa Times (Walnut Creek, CA) - March 31, 2009