Kenneth E. “Ken” Launer, Jr., 74, Johnsonburg

Kenneth E. “Ken” Launer, Jr., 74, of 1173 Long Level Rd., Johnsonburg, passed away Thursday October 30, 2025 at UPMC-Hamot, Erie, PA following a brief illness. He was born March 22, 1951 in Ridgway, a son to Kenneth E. Launer, Sr. and the late Naomi Huckabone Launer. He married the former Bonnie Baggs in Johnsonburg, and they have been happily married for over 50 years.

A lifelong resident of Johnsonburg, Ken was a 1969 graduate of Johnsonburg Area High School. He was a member of the Wilcox Presbyterian Church, the James W. Brown Masonic Lodge #675 where he had been the Worshipful Master and the Kane Masonic Lodge #566 where had served as Secretary for many years. Ken loved to spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He loved trips to the beach, particularly the Outer Banks, he loved his dogs, hunting and going to camp and his 4 mile walk every day. He was an excellent gardener and loved to can his produce.

A Vietnam Era Navy Vet, Ken served at sea aboard the USS Basilone as an Electronics Technician, Petty Officer Second Class, for which he received the National Defense Service Medal, the Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Vietnam Service Medal with One Star.

In 2014, Ken retired from Domtar after over 30 years of service.

Ken is survived by his wife Bonnie at home, his father Kenneth E. Launer, Sr. of Johnsonburg, his daughter Ashley Mae Launer of Wilcox and son Jay Launer (Leanna) of St. Marys and grandchildren Averi Launer and Aria Launer , a brother Shane Launer (Mary) of Johnsonburg and 2 sisters-in-law, Gail Launer and Cheryl Launer, both of Johnsonburg. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

In addition to his mother, Ken is predeceased by a son Joshua Kenneth Launer and brothers Thomas and Donald Launer.

Friends and family are invited to attend a funeral service for Kenneth E. “Ken” Launer to be conducted at the Anthony F. Ferragine Funeral Home and Cremation Services Chapel, 401 Chestnut St., Johnsonburg on Saturday November 8, 2025 at 1 PM. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Friends will be received at the funeral home Saturday from 11 AM until service time. There will be a Masonic Service prior to the Funeral Service at 12:30 PM presented by the Kane Masonic Lodge 566.

Military Honors will be accorded by the Johnsonburg-Wilcox-Ridgway Servicemen’s Detail. Detail member are asked to assemble at the funeral home, Saturday afternoon at 12:45 PM.

If desired, memorial contributions in Ken’s name should be made to the Elk County Humane Society, 1029 E. Eschbach Rd., St. Marys, PA 15857