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With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kenneth (Kenny) Keith Rolland, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who left this world peacefully after hearing heartfelt words of love from his grandchildren. He was born in Emmett, Idaho, on February 20, 1931, and passed away February 20, 2025, in Rupert, Idaho, surrounded by his loving family.
Kenny was born on February 20, 1931, to Lloyd and Nell Rolland. From a young age, Kenny was known for his strong work ethic. As a boy, he helped his father raise 2,500 turkeys, taking responsibility for feeding and watering them before and after school. At just 14 years old, he moved to California to work with his father in the dairy industry, and after his father fell ill, the family returned to Emmett, where he graduated high school and worked a variety of jobs to help support his family including dairy farming in both Emmett and Bend, Oregon.
At the age of 19, Kenny met the love of his life, Leona Ford. He often shared that he always polished his shoes before their dates, saying, “I wanted it to be for life, so I had to look nice.” Together, they built a beautiful life, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
Kenny was a proud man who valued hard work and integrity. Even when he was dusty and tired from his daily projects, he would always clean up before heading into town, ensuring he presented himself with pride. He spent over 30 years working at the Emmett sand plant, first starting at the downtown location and later helping design and build the plant at its current location. After the plant moved to the countryside, he became the plant manager, a position he held for 15 years before retiring in 1986. Yet, his love of work didn’t end with retirement, and he spent another 10 years working for TJT before fully retiring in 1996.
Kenny was passionate about his home, particularly his beautiful lawn, which was the envy of many. At 88, he decided to sell his home in Emmett and move to Rupert to be closer to his daughter. He spent his remaining years there, enjoying his family and continuing his lifelong love of working on projects around the house.
Kenny is survived by his children, son, Chuck (Teresa) Rolland, son, Frank (Jill) Rolland, daughter, Dee Anna (Allen) Knight; nine grandchildren, Shannon Rolland, Tyler Rolland, Stephanie (Allen) Burgess, Jeremy Rolland, Doug (Heather) Strang, Danielle (Randy) Browning, Damian Rolland,
Devin Rolland, and Daythan Rolland; numerous great-grandchildren and great, great-grandchildren; and his sister Lillian Hultz, all who will forever carry his memory in their hearts. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leona Rolland; two sons, Kenny Rolland and Larry Rolland; two grandsons, Domanic Rolland and Justin Rolland; his parents, Lloyd and Nell Rolland, and many more dear family and friends who are welcoming him home and rejoicing in a beautiful reunion.
A memorial service will be held at Potter Funeral Chapel in Emmett, ID on February 26, 2025 at 3:00 P.M. where family and friends are invited to celebrate his life and legacy. Burial will follow at the Emmett Cemetery.
Rest in peace, Kenny. Your love, dedication, and pride will forever be remembered.
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