Kenneth Henry Dircks

Kenneth Henry Dircks

Clarence

Kenneth Henry Dircks, age 90 of Clarence, passed away on Monday August 18, 2025 at the Clarence Nursing Home. There will be a private family graveside service at St. John’s Cemetery in Clarence.

Ken was born November 10, 1934 in rural Clarence to Henry and Leona (Goldsmith) Dircks. He married Cynthia Olsgaard on December 23, 1956. They later divorced.

Survivors include his children Barry (Suzy) Dircks of Solon, Pamela DesChatelets of Joliet, IL, and Susan (Rick) Klatt of Coralville; grandchildren Stacey (Justin) Hunter, Ryan Klatt, Kelsey Dircks (fiance Kevin), Megan Klatt (fiance Cory) and great grandchildren Emersyn, Jackson, and Dylan, along with nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; granddaughter Erin; and sister and brother-in-law Eileen and John Naber.

Ken graduated from Clarence High School in 1952 and from Iowa State University in 1956 with a degree in Education. He was drafted into the service and served honorably in the Army from July 1957 until July 1959.

Ken built and operated Plaza Bowling Center in Clinton with his parents and wife until his parents retirement. He also farmed in the Clarence area for 20 years before working for General Electric in outside sales in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex until his retirement. He was a past member of the Theta Delta Chi Fraternity at Iowa State, the Clarence Lions Club, and was a Cub Scouts Leader in Clarence. Ken also was on the church council and a current member of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Clarence. He loved his family dearly but most of all enjoyed teasing his grandchildren, as well as bowling, golf, and snowmobiling with many friends.

Chapman Funeral Home has Ken and his family in their care. Memories and condolences may be left at www.chapmanfh.com.