Kenneth Neil Baumgardner

Kenneth N. Baumgardner, 67, of Goose Creek, husband of Lorraine L. Baumgardner, passed away Thursday, August 4, 2016. Kenneth Baumgardner entered into this world on July 26, 1949 in Bristol, VA, born to Morris and Helen Baumgardner. Ken spent a lifetime developing an extensive repertoire of belly-laughing stories and semi-crude jokes, along with singing songs on his guitar that made his loved ones both cry and giggle. His kind spirit and generous nature will be greatly missed. His occupations honored his love of fiddling with and fixing things. He served in the Navy as an Electronic Technician from 1971 to 1977 and was a proud Golden Shellback. After his service, Kenneth worked as a calibration & electronics technician at the Charleston Naval Shipyard and at SPAWAR Systems Center Charleston. He also performed locally as the country musician “Kenny B” - he loved playing for friends, family and larger audiences. The music and the laughter that Ken shared with his family will comprise their fondest memories of his life. Ken was preceded in death by his father and mother, as well as his brother James - with whom he is most assuredly joking and chatting up a storm. Ken is survived by his wife Lorraine Baumgardner of Goose Creek, his son Neil, daughter-in-law Blair and grandson Jack Baumgardner of Falls Church, VA, beloved sisters Mary Bray of Johnson City, TN and Nancy Wilson of Gastonia, NC, 2 nephews and 2 nieces, and favorite cousins Alan and John Warden of Abbingdon and Bristol, VA. A Vigil will be held from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm on Thursday August 11th, 2016 at the McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, Goose Creek Chapel, 869 St. James Ave. Goose Creek SC, 29445. A Funeral Mass, followed by reception, will be held at 11:00 am on Friday August 12th, 2016 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 510 St. James Ave., Goose Creek SC, 29445. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Shrine, 512 W Saratoga St, Baltimore, MD 1201. Expressions of sympathy can be submitted or viewed online at www.mcalister-smith.com.