July 2, 1935 — July 2, 2024
Kenneth Allan Steward embraced his final sunset on July 21, 2024 with the same grace and courage with which he lived his life. He passed away in Kingsland, Texas, after a valiant battle with cancer. Ken was born on July 2, 1935, to Ernest and Ruth Steward, in the small town of Vega, Texas. His journey through life was marked by an unwavering spirit, a keen intellect, and a heart full of faith.
Ken’s early life in Harlingen, Texas laid a solid foundation for his ambition and strong work ethic. He attended Texas Tech University, where he earned a degree in Petroleum Engineering. Ken was the President of his Kappa Sigma Fraternity at Texas Tech where he met many of his lifelong friends. Ken and his late brother, Bob Steward, established Linco-Electromatic, Inc. in Midland, Texas in 1967. Ken ran this company for 40 years, where his leadership, commitment to the highest standards, and dedication to his employees left an indelible mark on the oil and gas industry and those who worked alongside him.
Throughout his life, Ken was a beacon of friendliness, always displaying a quick wit and an incredible sense of humor. He was a great storyteller and loved the occasional prank. Ken was also a fisherman. Some of his most cherished memories are from salmon fishing in Alaska with his friends and deep-sea fishing in Port Mansfield, TX. Ken did not slow down after retiring from his company. He tried his hand at many different ventures, including building his dream home on Lake LBJ in Kingsland, TX. He was an inspiration to many, and it shone through in every aspect of his life.
Ken’s love story with his beloved wife, Sally Steward, was one for the ages, celebrating 64 years of marriage this year. Together, they built a life filled with mutual respect, love, and unwavering support. Their family grew to include two wonderful daughters, Julie Colburn of Kingsland, TX, and Jill Steward of Liberty Hill, TX.
Ken’s role as a grandfather was one he cherished deeply, boasting of the accomplishments of his granddaughters, Blake Colburn of Cedar Park, TX, and Drew Colburn of Brooklyn, NY. The birth of his great-granddaughter, Harlowe Rogers of Cedar Park, TX, added another layer of joy to his life and provided him with countless moments of pride and happiness.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert Steward. Cherishing his memory are his wife, Sally Steward; his daughters, Julie Colburn and Jill Steward (Rhonda Smith); his granddaughters, Blake Colburn and Drew Colburn; his greatgranddaughter, Harlowe Marie Rogers; his nephew, Shane Steward and his family, as well as a large extended family and countless friends.
His family wishes to thank the wonderful caregivers, Jillian, Emily and Sean, who provided such loving care for both Ken and Sally dur-ing Ken's final months of life.
And, we deeply appreciate the support New Century Hospice offered Ken and the family during his final days.
As we bid farewell to Ken, we celebrate a life well lived-a life filled with purpose, joy, and an abundance of love. Ken’s journey on this earth may have ended, but the stories of his kindness, wisdom, and the love he shared will continue to resonate for generations to come. His absence will be felt deeply by his cherished family, and the community that he so positively influenced.
Rest in peace, Ken. Your memory will always be a blessing.
A graveside service honoring Ken’s life will be held at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park, 4219 Park Road 4 South, Burnet, TX 78611 on Friday, July 26th at 10:30am. A reception will follow at the Steward residence.
