Kenneth "Ken" Mears

Kenneth “Ken” Baldridge Mears, of Uniontown, Ohio, passed away peacefully at home on September 21, 2025, at the age of 90. He was born to the late Samuel and Grace Mears on January 22, 1935, in Meadville, Pennsylvania. Ken lived a life marked by faith, dedication, and craftsmanship.

Ken graduated from Cochranton High School in 1953. Shortly after, he served his country for two years in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957. His service reflected the same steadfastness and sense of duty that would define his life in the years to come.

Following his military service, Ken began his career as a machinist at Channellock, where he worked for 39 years before retiring in 1997. Known for his precision and work ethic, Ken took pride in every task he undertook—whether on the job or at home.

On October 19, 1957, Ken married Janet Albert Mears. Together for nearly 68 years, they built a life rooted in love and shared values. Their union was blessed with two children: Gregory Mears (wife Beth) and Julie Powell (husband Kevin). Ken was also a proud grandfather to six grandchildren, Ben Mears, Brady Mears, Michael (wife Havvah) Powell, Matthew (wife Emily) Powell, Karissa (husband Tyler) Agosta, and Kyle (wife Madeline) Powell; and proud great grandfather to eight great-grandchildren, Elisha, Elia-Lynn, Avishi, Amitai, Emma, Ezra, Elias, and Georgia Mae. In addition he is survived by siblings Lucy Hess, David (wife Peggy) Mears, Fred Mears, and Gloria (husband Gordon) Ruby.

Ken’s hands were rarely idle. A skilled woodworker and craftsman, he built his own home and fully restored a 1933 Ford into a gleaming street rod—a testament to his attention to detail and passion for antique cars. He found joy in hunting, fishing, and especially time spent at the cherished cabin he built in the Allegheny National Forest. Whether playing cards like Rook or Sequence with family and friends, enjoying big band music, or reading a good book, Ken embraced life’s simple pleasures.

His faith was central to who he was. A born-again Christian, Ken attended Maranatha Bible Church for over thirteen years. He volunteered regularly at Summit Missions International in Green.

Visitation will be held at Maranatha Bible Church on Wednesday September 24th from 10-11 AM. The memorial service will begin promptly at 11 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Maranatha Bible Church, 1424 Killian Rd., Akron, OH 44312, or Summit Missions International, P.O. Box 638, Green, OH 44232—organizations close to Ken’s heart.

Ken's legacy lives on through the family he loved deeply, the work he accomplished with care, and his faith. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

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