Kenneth Howard Laird

November 23, 1926 - November 19, 2014

Kenneth Howard Laird Political Giant in the Democratic Party & Businessman Kenneth Howard Laird age 87 of Charleroi died Wednesday, November 19th. Born November 23rd, 1926 in W. Brownsville the son of the late Charles J. & Reba E. Manspeaker Laird, he was a member of the First United Methodist Church in California, and a Sgt. in the US Army in the Philippines. Kenny (KL) was well known in SW PA for his chain of “S&S” shoe stores and his tireless support for the Democratic party and local candidates for office. He learned from his grandmother, a Democratic committee woman, at a young age that actions trumped words and was always willing to lend his organizational skills, support, relationships, and labor to promote deserving young office seekers and increase voter participation. He was extremely blessed to be able to quietly provide charitable support to numerous organizations and individuals in both large and small ways throughout his life. He was a tireless contributor and supporter of his community. He was involved in many civic projects, public service and volunteer activities including: Justice of the Peace, Constable, Charleroi Borough Council member, past Commander of American Legion Post #22, past Chairman of VFW Post #167, Charleroi Police Civil Service Commissioner, Chief Administrator for former Washington County Commissioner John Bevic, Washington County Tax Assessment Board member, Chairman of the Washington County Authority during construction of Courthouse Square, Chief of Staff for former US Congressman Austin (A.J.) Murphy, US Congressional delegate to Japan and China and Small Business Advisory Board member under President Carter. Kenny was recognized for his thirteen years of service with the Charleroi Water & Sewage Authority by PA State Senator Richard Kasunic. After his retirement, he was extensively involved as a volunteer at Center in the Woods Adult Day Care; delivering meals-on-wheels and serving as Director of the California Senior Center, Vice-President of Directors of California Senior Housing, and President of the Board of Directors at various times. He served as a past member of the Washington Senior Center. Ken was honored for his volunteer efforts and bringing the spotlight to dementia and Alzheimer's sufferers by the Herald Standard, as a Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Community Champion & Jefferson Award winner; a United Way of Washington, PA Unsung Hero; and a Presbyterian Senior Care Quality of Life award winner. Surviving is his companion of many years Irene Sasek, two daughters; Susan (James)Bilitski of California, PA and Charlene (Frank) Konek of Charleroi. Three grandchildren; Donald (Lisa) Gray, Frank Jr. (Jen) Konek, Ken (Kellie) Konek. Seven greatgrandchildren; Zachary & Abby Gray, Cael, Kinzie, and Cole Konek , and Tyler & Cali Konek. Ken was preceded in death by his wife Ada Defino Laird, brothers; William and Victor Laird, and grand-daughter; Charlene Gray. At the request of the deceased, their will be no public visitation and the burial will be private. Memorial contributions can be made to Center in the Woods or Adult Day Care, 130 Woodland Ct, Brownsville, PA 15417. More information can be found at www.centerinthewoods.org/donatenow.html. Online condolences may be expressed at www.WarcoFalvoFuneralHome.com.