Ken Dorst - Share Memories

Memories

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Patric Taylor - His laugh...that one of the fond memories I have of Dr. Dorst. It was unique. It was both full of fun and with a \"wink,\" a bit mischievous at the same time. Though I went through my studies at SJSU as an actor, Dr. Dorst taught me the love of lighting. Because it was what he loved and he was willing to share his knowledge. He was one of those teachers you never forget. He exemplified the term \"teacher.\" Kind, gentle, firm when necessary, but always respectful, Dr. Dorst was like his laugh, unique. May God hold you close and provide comfort to those who miss you. Thank You, Dr. Dorst. Patric Taylor 1974-1977 Theatre Arts.
- I think that my visit to San Jose to honor Dr. Dorst was the highlight of the year for me. I keep thinking of his great smile and wonderful memories of all of us....Forever will I be grateful for him and his guidance.
Rodger Webster - Gosh, it was way back in the early 60s ('61-65) when I entered SJSU and sometime in those years was taught by Ken. What I most remember is that his exams were so easy: you just had to know EVERYTHING he had said in his lectures! Ken was totally encouraging of my work in drama. As head of student lighting crew I wrote a "report" on Ken's lighting of "Ondine," and he said it was about the best report he had ever received. Not only because of that, but certainly as an influence, if I had chosen any area of technical theatre to pursue as a career, it would have been lighting. I also had Ken for a Graduate Thesis Research course, and the work he had us do greatly aided my thesis writing and research. Occasionally, while I still lived "in the area" (I have lived in Seattle since the late '70s) I would stop in to see folks in the Drama Dept., and Ken was always cordial and welcoming to me. And gracious! the shows that he lit for the Drama Dept. were always special. His artistry, as well as his knowledge of "tricks," were amazing. Oh, and if one were into gossip, Ken was always a good source, and for some of my colleagues in Drama, that was a real plus! I have the fondest memories of my years at SJSU, and Ken will remain a part of those for as long as those memories survive. Love, Cheers & Blessings to Ken's family and to all of us who were given his attention while Ken was a wonderful Professor at SJSU. Rodger Webster (acimrodger@hotmail.com)
Russell Doolittle - I have very fond memories of Ken. As an undergraduate student in the mid-80's at SJSU, I was a Technical Direction student. As such, I worked with Ken on shows, and studied Lighting with him. As a Artistic co-worker, he never treated me with anything less than respect. As a student, he was a joy to learn from. I am a second generation SJSU Theatre Arts graduate, and my Mom, as a Costuming student, also worked with Ken, early on in his career as a Spartan. As I scrolled through some of the responses, I see a lot of old friends. Ken influenced a lot of us, and that may be the best epitaph. Ken Dorst influenced generations of San Jose State University students and facility. I have left the business, but in Construction, the professionalism that people like Ken demanded of me in College had done well by me. I am known for my Professionalism in this industry. To Ken's family, thank you for sharing him with those of us at SJSU. I am proud to say I knew Ken Dorst. God Bless you, Ken.
Chuck & Bobbie Flagg - We have so many memories of Ken back in the late 70s and early 80s when we attended St. Edward's. He was always so happy, so friendly, so willing to do whatever was asked of him--a kind and gentle man, a good role model for us on our Christian pilgrimage. The parish camp outs, the work parties.... We also remember the wonderful relationship between him and Peg and the kids, assuring them of our condolences and that they are all in our prayers at this sad time.
Karen Wilson LeFever - In 1984 I arrived at SJSU in the first MFA class for Theatre. I never had Ken as a teacher, director, or otherwise. However, out of the blue he came to me in my first semester and suggested that I apply for the Peninsula Children's Theater Association scholarship. I was barely making ends meet as a full-time student, and I had even questioned my ability to afford my second year. But that was not public knowledge. So then came Ken with this encouragement. So, powered by his enthusiasm and support, I applied and participated in an interview and audition with PCTA. To my amazement, I won the $3,000 scholarship. When I told Ken, he literally jumped for joy. He gave me a huge hug and impressed on me how rare and special it was that I had been given this scholarship. He cited how I'd been selected from just a small handful of students representing Stanford, Santa Clara University, etc. In that moment, Ken demonstrated his love for San Jose State University, his pride in the Theatre Arts Department, and his genuine happiness for me--and we really didn't know each other at all! His outpouring of affection and pride in that moment was deeply appreciated and affecting. Up to that moment, I was alone in San Jose. With that scholarship, I was able to cover rent and tuition for my second year and indeed graduated with an M.F.A. in Theatre Arts...in great part due to Ken Dorst.
Jon Krahenbuhl - Dr Dorst was my lighting mentor at San Jose state in the early 80's. I benefitted greatly from knowledge, he bestowed on me & the opportunities he gave me to design. I was able to design lights for a record # of shows for an undergrad due to his trust & confidence in me. Because of mentors like him I'm still in the industry..a professional lighting technician working for the Stagehand Union. I owe much of my professional success to him. Also no one knew his lighting colors like Ken. What an artist! He will be missed.
Debbie, John, Grant, Scott and Conner Edgcomb - Ken Dorst was a very special uncle. On a visit at Christmas (I think it was 1979)I mentioned that a cherished Christmas Creche had been broken in a move. He hand whittled a replacement piece and gave it to me on Christmas. It was better than new and his act of kindness made such a special memory that Christmas. I always thought Uncle Ken might have some Irish in his blood. He had a twinkle in his eye when he talked and was often full of "blarney". He was a great storyteller. He lived a wonderful life and always seemed so content and peaceful. He will be missed by all of us. We send our love and deepest sympathy to Aunt Peggy, Kathy, Tom, Patty and families.
Candi Elwell Jenkins and Brent Jenkins SJSU 1977 - We were a part of that wonderful group at SJSU in the late 70's. Dr. Dorst is resposnible for many things in our lives, but we will always be gratefull for Canturbury Tales. Dr. Dorst let me be the Stage manager, and he found this new guy who was not even a theatre major to be my asm. Just like he and Peggy, Brent and I met in theatre and have been together ever since. Dr. Dorst was very kind in helping me pass my lighting final. We all had to climb up to the cat walk in the theatre and fiddle with the lights. I was terrified of heights at the time and was sure I was going to pass out and fall through the hole. He very gently talked me through it and I survived. I really apprecieated that Dr. Dorst had experience working with churches,because we were starting our first drama minisitry at the time. He gave me great advice and lots of encouragement. While he will be greatly missed, I am sure the he and Dr. Todd are having a great time up there. Our prayers are for his family, thank you for sharing such a great man with the rest of us.God bless and comfort you all.
Kevin Cornelius - My first memories of Ken are from my years at Santa Clara Junior Theatre (1979-1986). Ken was not only a wonderful director and teacher, but an incredibly supportive audience member. It was always a special performance when we were told "Dr. Dorst is in the audience!" He came to see all of the plays, and was always very encouraging. I was Ken's student at SJSU from 1986-1990. Although Ken was semi-retired, he agreed to be my advisor during my Freshman year. He offered me wonderful guidance, and helped me keep a sense of humor in the scary and exciting new world of college theatre. I was especially lucky to study lighting design one-on-one with Ken. I also learned a lot by being his assistant and electrician on many productions. I was very honored to be the first student to earn the Ken Dorst Keylight Award for Excellence in Stage Lighting, which is an award created to honor Ken's many years of work at San Jose State. Ken was always very kind, calm and supportive. In recent years, he and Peggy have come to see some of the productions I have been in at Saratoga Drama Group. It felt like great old times to know "Dr. Dorst is in the audience tonight!" once again. My thoughts and support are with your family. Ken was a great man, and I feel lucky to have known him.
Dave, Elizabeth, Lauren, Mark and Kevin Hunsaker - Ken Dorst was Dutch and he was my uncle, but he was nothing remotely like the definition of a "Dutch uncle"! Not only was he kind, caring, patient and understanding, but he also had a wonderful sense of humor. He seemed able to find humor in almost any situation, which came in handy at times like family reunions and long car trips. Growing up, he made our summer visits memorable by building elaborate lighting systems and props for the "talent" shows and plays we Hunsaker and Dorst kids used to make our parents suffer through. And even though we didn't see each other often, he (and Aunt Peggy) always took a genuine interest in keeping current with what we were all up to. We will all miss him, but are thankful that he is no longer suffering and is now at peace. With sincerest sympathy, love and affection to the entire Dorst family, from Dave, Elizabeth, Lauren, Mark and Kevin
(Ann) Michelle (Meyer) Getsla - I was a student majoring in Drama (or Theatre Arts, take your pick) from 1964 to 1970. I had no interest in doing anything with the major, lacking any martetable skills or talent in the subject. It was a default major for me when I couldn't continue with my original goals. I didn't even plan to be a teacher, either. I liked drama well enough to have it as a major, however. I was fortunate enough to meet some really fine people and to enjoy the guidance and teachings of the faculty, especially Dr. Dorst. I was selected to act in vey minor parts in only a few plays. I was good with dramatic literature. Dr. Dorst recognized my limited abilities in drama. However, he was very supportive of me while I struggled with the courses I took from him. The major had a number of basic required courses and all the faculty participated in these. In addition, one had to select a number of elective major courses. I took most of the technical courses, which, of course, included Lighting. I know if Dr. Dorst had been inclined to just teach the material with little interaction with the students, I would never have made it through the lighting classes. He allowed for each of us to take the assignments as far as our will and abilities permitted. In my case, I did the simplest light designs I could master. When I began my studies, I was single. Before I completed my studies, I became ill and struggled to stay in school. Dr. Dorst was kind and helped me survive my illness. He gave me plenty of time to make up the work and take the tests I missed due to my illness. The final project for the advanced lighting class was to light an Ibsen play. This included plotting a grid for the lights and determining the power "load" to each instrument. By this time, I married a man who worked in broadcast television. Dr. Dorst wasn't certain I did the work all by myself. He asked me if my husband, Bob, had done any of the work. I was proud to say all Bob did was check the power load to make sure I hadn't exceeded capacity. I loved to play with color in light. I was taking Early Childhood Education classes in preparation to teach nursery school ages 3 to 6. While doing my 100 hours of student teaching, I did a lesson plan around light color and pigment color. I asked Dr. Dorst if I could have some scrap of color gels to make color paddles for my students to use. Dr. Dorst generously provided not only whole sheets of the colors I required but he made the paddles for me. He commented to me, "I certainly didn't expect this to take so long." He could've stopped the project, for I am sure he had more pressing things to do,but he finished the paddles for me that afternoon, cutting the wood, inserting the gels, sealing the gels into the paddle. His designe was simple but effective. He was very pleased with the result of his work. He sincerely inquired about my student teaching and the success of my lesson in light color. He also helped me to improve my lesson plans. I wouldn't have made such good color paddles myself. I still have them. They withstood much use. I remember he had an "open door" policy and all of us could drop by when he was in his tiny office, no appointment required. It was cram packed. There was a caricature sketch of the Mona Lisa tacked to the wall above his file cabinet. I never could get him to answer my questions about that drawing. It must have meant something special to him, or else he just liked to tease me and keep me guessing. Thank you for posting this web. I am so sorry for your loss. He enjoyed his work, the students, his family and every project he undertook. I am glad to have the opportunity to share a little of my memories of Dr. Dorst with you, but most of all I want you to know how sad I am to hear of his loss. I was but one of hundreds of students he had over the years. I am sure he didn't have reason to remember me, especially. I have thought of him fondly over the years. I will always remember him. His appearance hasn't changed, either, judging by this posted picture. Your tribute to him is so loving and captures him so well. God bless you. I know Dr. Dorst was blessed and as you say, he is now with his Creator and is at peace. Sincerely, (Ann) Michelle (Meyer) Getsla (he knew me as Michelle Meyer, then Michelle Getsla, after I married)
Joe Allan - Ken was a great director. That was my experience with him. In 1969/70, Man of la Mancha was a wonderful adventure with him and my first main stage show at SJSU. He really worked closely with me to put across the song I sang. He would always tease me and call me a ham. I think he was right. I know he did the lighting on many shows I was in also. The lighting was always flawless. Every time I would see him in the halls at SJSU he would have a great smile for me and ask how I was and what I was doing, he was always interested. He was just a really nice guy. It is hard to say goodbye to your loved ones. I know only too well this grief, having lost my wife Karen, my parents and my brother. They will always be with me as Ken will be with you always, in your hearts and memories. I'll say a prayer for Ken, Peggy and family. My condolences to all of Ken's family.
Elaine Drake - Ken was a blessing from the moment I met him. I had been away from church for many years and started attending Trinity after my son was married there. ken was serving as an Elder at the time, and he was always very encouraging to me about my decision to return to church. It was a blessing to serve with him as an elder and to work with him on various projects. His good humor and the sparkle in his eye never failed to lift my spirit. I have no doubt that God spoke to me through him, and I will remember him always with prayers of thanks.
Judy Morasci - I appreciate Ken's involvement at Milpitas Christian School. He was present at almost every event in which his grandchildren were involved. Not only that, he was a role model of serving God through serving others. He helped out in countless ways to show the students that a godly person is the hands and heart of Christ in the community. Ken was exactly that. He represented the hands and heart of Christ. He will be missed.
Kim Scroggins Ziviani - This is such a shock. I guess we just beleive that the people we look up to will live forever. The last time I saw him he joked with me about how I have never been able to call him Ken...It was always Dr. Dorst. How many of us remember that old lighting board and how happy we were to be there working for Dr. Dorst on a show. His lectures were fun, his classes tough, and his smiles were golden. He always looked at me with a slight question mark to his smile and often said to me "Courage Camille!" Basically we all know that Dr. Dorst gave himself to his students and his school. We adored him for it. He inspired us in "Man of La Mancha" and shocked us in "Canterbury Tales." Without his direction I would never have gone on to get a Master's Degree or even have had the confidence to think I could do the work. He believed in his students and did everything he could to help them. There are no words to explain the loss we feel. My life has been made better by knowing Dr. Dorst and his family. Kim SJSU 1965-1970 1976-1978
Diane Main - I have only had the chance to spend time with Ken and Peggy Dorst in passing during their many visits to our school to help out in Kathy's class and around campus. Our school family has been truly blessed by Ken and Peggy and all they have done. I have often felt that Kathy, Henry, Mike, and Steven have been so fortunate to have Kathy's parents be such a vital part of their day-to-day life. (I live far away from all my family, and I miss them.) I have also admired Ken's gentle, peaceful manner. How could one have a conversation with him and not walk away feeling calm and bearing a great big smile. I have seen this trait in his daughter Kathy many times, and it is what I have always valued as her colleague and as the teacher of her child. Ken is smiling down on us from Heaven, where he is rejoicing with the Father. I hope he meets my Dad there and they get a chance to chat. All my family's love is with your family during this time. You can be prepared for such a loss, but there is still an emptiness knowing you can't hold hands or give a hug to the one who is not here with us any longer. God Bless you all.
elsief@prodigy.net - I was so happy to have met Ken on this side.I know that he is with THE LORD on the other side.His Peggy is a jewel and may God Bless the family...In His Love...ELSIE FREEMAN
Ethel Walker - Although I did not know Ken personally, I spoke with him often when he visited the TRFT Department at San Jose State University. He was always friendly and enthusiastic, especially during his tenure as archivist for us. His kindness and generosity will be missed, and the entire Department of Television, Radio, Film and Theatre will miss him. His accomplishments and achievements at San Jose State will remain a hallmark of his career as an educator and artist. Our lasting tribute will be the students who leave our charge and contribute to society as Ken did. The entire Department shares in the grief of this loss, but rejoices and celebrates the life and legacy Ken Dorst left us.
Mike Adams - What a Great Guy! I met Ken for the first time 10 years ago. The occasion was the annual College of Humanities and Arts Faculty Emeritus Brunch. This was significant because Ken was the only emeritus faculty person from the department who ever regularly attended this event. He, more than other retired faculty in theatre, cared about the university and department, even after retirement. Ken served us as our volunteer historian, and I remember that after we had to move the archives upstairs, I would encounter Ken huffing and puffing in the halls, out of breath, carrying massive amounts of documents, but always with a great attitude. In my 20 years in the department I have seen few who matched Ken's sense of service. Thank you Ken for organizing our archives. We will remember you always and you will of course be mentioned at our yearly graduation when we award the "Dorst Keylight Award."
Karl Toepfer - Ken Dorst played a major role in shaping my relation to the University and to the Department of Television, Radio, Film, and Theatre, so I have many fond memories of him. He was the first person I met in the Department when I entered it as a graduate student in 1977. I clearly remember sitting in his office on a warm July afternoon as he gently explained various procedures and expectations. I went in quite nervous and unsure of what I was doing as a graduate student. But after talking with Ken, I felt full of confidence and eagerness to succeed in following a path whose destination still remained uncertain. When school began, I enrolled in his graduate seminar in research methods. This course, and Ken's encouragement, were decisive in persuading me to develop a career as a scholar. After I received my doctorate, Ken was instrumental in bringing me into the Department as a lecturer and eventually as an assistant professor. No one was more helpful in sharing with me knowledge about the peculiar history, traditions, and culture of the University and the Department. He was acutely sensitive to the way in which history shapes our lives, institutions, and culture; no one was as skillful as him in comparing the past with the present in our University--he knew so many stories about people, policies, and decisions! It was always such a pleasure chatting with him about the complex of motives, misunderstandings, or consequences defining some aspect of University history. These conversations invariably had the effect of intensifying my engagement with the University. His detached, worldly historical perspective actually served to amplify commitment to the University and to strengthening one's contribution to its history. In 1988, Ken's last work as lighting designer for the Department was for my production of Rice's The Adding Machine. For this show, Ken had acquired a new, computerized lighting program that allowed him to introduce all sorts of extraordinary effects. The show contained a wonderful variety of powerful images because of Ken's complex and stunning design. The show remains one of the most memorable ever produced by the Department, and Ken's lighting was a model of imaginative daring, technical virtuosity, and aesthetic excitement that occurs even in the theatre anywhere only once in a long while. After he retired, I saw Ken only infrequently, but always under most happy circumstances, because he visited the University in his capacity as historian of the Department. He maintained the departmental archives, and as a result, I learned even more about the remarkable history of the Department and the personalities who built it. What a pleasure it was sifting through the old files and listening to him expand on what aspects of a story were missing from the files! Ken made a big difference in my life, because he showed so well how important history is in defining our present lives; his notion of history was very inclusive and much broader than what we find in history books. History is in the stories people tell about themselves and their institutions; it is in all sorts of curious things that people neglect, forget, or file away. But it is the great shaper of destiny. But most importantly, he showed how a great sensitivity to history is the key to doing something really new, as happened when, at the end of his artistic work for the department, he produced such an astonishingly innovative use of light in The Adding Machine. I learned much from him, so I am eternally grateful to him.
Betty Poindexter - Ken, I will never forget your many kindnesses to a young faculty member when I came on board at SJSU in 1979. You kept me on track and helped so much to get me through the ins and outs of RTP. I could not have wished for a better, more generous colleague! What great show memories - particulary Man of La Mancha - it is till one of my favorites. You and Peggy were so welcoming with dinners at your home. I loved being included in the Dorst family Christmas card mailing and home made ornaments.I still have the "light bulb" Christmas ornament you made. Love you!
Cindy Coppage - I will miss you Uncle Ken, your ever ready, twinkling sense of humor and kind, caring soul. I'll never forget the wonderful time you showed me when I came to visit your family after I graduated from college. We saw every highlight the Bay Area had to offer in the space of three days and shared many laughs. And both Ted and I will always treasure the visit we had with you and Peggy in Seattle a few years ago. Peace be with you.
Henry - It�s sad to see Ken go. Ken is a devoted Christian and I have a strong feeling that he knows he is going to a better place, a place to visit his Friend. Ken is very hands-on, he loves to build stuff and I know he is going to work very hard to prepare his new home to welcome Peggy in the distant future. (In Chinese tradition, we would burn any object that is made out of paper so that the person moving on has everything he or she needs). On the other hand, maybe all he needs is to wiggle his nose. :) The Dorsts are a very close knit family and I am confident that Peggy will be in excellent hands after Ken�s departure. I remember when I first met the Dorsts, they immediately made me feel like a part of the family, and I am especially grateful for their hospitality to my family whenever they come for a visit. Ken will walk around nervously and ask me how do you say, "We welcome you," in Chinese. He is genuinely a caring person. Ken often told me that we are alike. To some extent we are, but what I admire most about Ken is his willingness to help anyone in need, and I�ll miss my silent partner at the dinner table (excluding my teenage boys of course). It's quite difficult to chime in with conversation between Kathy, Patty, Tom, & Peggy.
Bob Dorst - My brother Ken has been and will always be a true inspiration to me. He led by example and was always there for me in my time of need. Having him for a brother and friend was a real honor that I will cherish forever. Looking back at the many wonderful memories I have shared with Ken and his family makes me realize that he made me a better person. I am most grateful for the recent visit we shared knowing it would be our last. We laughed,cried and shared a lot of stories of our lives. He is my big brother and I will miss him but know that we will meet again. Love to you all. Bobby
Ruth Schaefer & Linda Durrenberg & Family - Ruth-Knowing Ken will always be a pleasant memory to me. His letters always brought a ray of sunshine into my life even though the miles separated us. The few times we were fortunate to meet were always happy ones. He will be greatly missed here but I know Heaven will be a brighter place because he's there. Until we meet again. Love, Ruth & Ron Linda-Ken is a wonderful man that I enjoyed studying our family history together. His sense of humor was always a joy. I will keep his last visit to Wisconsin as a special memory. Besides our genealogy, we shared a love of theater, and I wish we had more time to talk of both subjects again. He shall always be with me, and I will miss him terribly. We will see him again some day. Love, Linda, Roy & Michael
Connie Yao - I will always remember Ken as "Grandpa". Grandma (Peggy) and Grandpa took us in as part of their family, inviting us to their house on each of our visits to San Jose. I remember Grandpa playing with Mike and Steve. He also took my daughter, Samantha as his granddaughter as well, as she calls him Grandpa. I also remember the walks we often had together around the lake and feeding the ducks with cheerios. I will remember Grandpa as a kind, fun and witty person.
Lisa Glenn - While I did not know Ken, my daughter Sami, who was in Kathy's 5th grade class, had great memories of him. She loved when he would help out in class and thought it was so great that her teacher's parents would visit class. Both Ken and his wife are great examples of loving parents and grandparents. My prayers go out to the entire family.
Phil Fouts-SJSU 1967-70 - Ken and Peggy- Dr. Dorst, it seems like only a short time ago that I was at SJSU and being treated to the joy and thrill of learning about theater from you and my other mentors there. But you, Ken, stood out. When you smile your face lights up, and that is infectious. I especially carry the Memories of "Man of La Mancha" with me to this day. The theme of the show and your dedication to it helped make me the man I am, and gave me the strength to dream that impossible dream. Peggy, please remember we're only a couple of blocks away and we're here for you when you need us. Blessings to you and your family.
Bob and Carol Couper - Ken, when I think about you, I remember your strong and loyal commitment to our weekly Christian Cursillo 4th day group. I was privileged to listen to your openness and clarity in sharing your closest moments to Christ each week, your unwavering Christian devotion to focusing your mind after the mind of Christ and your humbleness in sharing what the Lord had accomplished through you in your family, your work, and your environment. Ken, you are truly the salt of the earth and a saint of a man who always went out of his way to help others. Carol and I will forever remember the fond memories we have had together. God bless you always.
Ginny Barry - When I think of you Ken, I immediately think of the powerful ways God has worked through you... Words that are often considered "opposites" are perfectly balanced and blended in you: strength/gentleness, kindness/standing firm, leader/servant - you have been a real role model as a man of God. I think of all the Alphas we worked together, and all of your behind-the-scenes work at the Make, Bake, & Sew Auctions... and so many other events. You never complained, and you always wore that radiant smile! You have been a blessing ... thank you. Say hello to my mom when you see her in Heaven.
Randy Earle - My lasting memory of Ken will always be that he was the FIRST SJSU faculty member to reach out to me and my wife when we arrived in San Jose, August, 1970. He was so generous with his time, sage advice, warm hospitality and, as always, sincere friendship. Ken was a valued mentor, office mate, fellow designer and colleague to me during the many years we worked together. He inspired my active participation in SJSU campus-wide committees and encouraged me to engage in active participation in CETA and USITT. His advice shaped my professional career development. However, from our first encounter to my last visit several weeks ago, I'll always remember Ken as my initial and lasting friend at SJSU. I know his family will remain within my circle of friends and want them to know I'm here to offer my support during this most difficult of times.
Carol Brolaski Kline - Ken... You gave me strength I when I had none. You gave me a true love of the theatre....when I was only playing. You gave me the tools for true professionalism...with a firm hand, a kind smile, in a safe place. You gave me not one, but TWO careers. I became a top costume designer and a singer in the musical theatre. God bless you, Dr. Dorst. I am so grateful that I had you as my mentor.
Sean,DeeDee,Ryan&Shannon Walsh - When I think of Uncle Ken I think of family. He was the one who truly taught me the importance of keeping in touch with relatives. It was the Ken Dorst family that always came to see us when we were little and to this day we still recieve birthday cards and anniversary cards yearly. Thinking of him brings a smile to may face due to his sense of humor & kindness. He is a loving sole and will be missed greatly. May his final days be restful and more importantly pain free. My family is holding all of you in our thoughts and prayers during this bittersweet time.... All our Love, Dee Dee and family P.S. Did you know that my Uncle showed real artistic talent??? I have a copy of one of his originals that he recently sent me that I will cherish always as it makes me giggle everythime I see it. Tee Hee
Carol Ketchum - I've been thinking of whimsical, silly memories like every morning when bus #3 started out (on the 1990 Germany trip), Ken sneezed at least three times. Another venue, at Tahoe Ken and Peg shared some great recipes, including "Linguini ala Dorstini" - a classic that is forever a part of the special cookbook that was developed for the Tahoe group of dear friends. Much humor and love was shared in that place.
Madelaine & Nick Yannaccone - We will always remember you, Ken as you helped organize all those wonderful functions at St. Edward's. Your smile, that twinkle in your eyes, your courage and strength through illness and challenges and most of all your faith in God and our savior Jesus Christ will always remain an inspiration for us. Thank you for your life...God be with you in these last days...until we meet again in that heavenly kingdom.
Dwight McBride - When I remember Ken, I remember a man who was always prepared, and who always smiled broadly. He was such a great example for us all.
Kevin, Kelli & Matthew Dorst - I have so many memories of Uncle Ken, that I don't know where to begin. I remember his laugh and his smile. As a child, I admired him. As an adult, I respect and love him. Uncle Ken, you are in our thoughts and prayers. When you see Cynthia, please tell her hello and that her family is doing well. We love you. Kevin, Kelli & Matthew
Carol Anne Haws - Ken was always wonderfully involved with us dancer-types. Whether he liked the dances or not, he never failed with the lighting designs for us. I will miss him a lot!
Bob Williams - Ken was my good friend and teacher at Indiana University. I'm grateful that after a very long time we had a special reunion and my Pat got to meet Ken and Peggy. I'm so pleased my music (on cds) provided Ken with warm memories and know he touched our lives.
The Rev Deacon Kathey Crowe - Dearest Ken, when I think about you, I think of a man of real kindness expressing an authentic love for God by the way you loved others. You and Peggy sponsored my Cursillo and showered me with so many blessings. I still use the cup you gave me to mark my place at meals with fondness and happy memories. The picture you gave me for my ordination, the one Patty drew of Jesus and the Children, is always on display when I do a "Safeguarding God's Children" training. I have been holding you in prayer knowing that the best is yet to come. With love and sincere admiration for a life well lived.
Ted Kopulos - San Jose State 1977 - Probably the highlight of my time at San Jose State was in getting to know Ken. Oddly enough, I never had him as a teacher during my four years there. But he was a kindred spirit when it came to musical theater, treating it with as much respect as the other teachers treated "real" theater. We would have great conversations, sharing a similar sense of humor I found Ken a wonderful touchstone in my SJSU days. He greatly supported my theatrical endeavors outside of the campus department. We spoke briefly at the Theater Department's anniversary dinner some years back, and it was great to see him smile and make him laugh when we should have been behaving ourselves. A warm, funny and most likeable soul. He will be greatly missed.
Dusty Reeds - In the past few days I have been looking back at the many wonderful memories I have of Ken, his family, and my work with Ken and my visits in the last few years. What a joy this relationship has been for me from the time I first arrived in San Jose to my last visit there. I shall always treasure those memories. What a dear and loving family...the Dorsts....thank you all for being my friends....
Fr. Jim & Pam - Ken will always be with us. His quick humor. His joy in working Cursillos. Our talks about God and much much more. We are holding all of you in our prayers.