Kenneth Reynolds

Kenneth Donald “Ken” Reynolds

April 24, 1936 – June 29, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kenneth Donald Reynolds, lovingly known as Ken, at the age of 90. Ken was surrounded by his friends and family on his final days

Ken was born on April 24, 1936, in Rollins, Montana, to Allen William Reynolds and Charlotte (Bostic) Evadane Reynolds. He was one of six siblings and spent his early years living in several towns throughout Montana before his family settled in Sheridan, Wyoming. On July 22, 1953, Ken enlisted in the United States Army as a paratrooper and proudly served his country during the Korean War. Following his military service, he moved to California, where he met Melba Roberson, whom he married on December 8, 1957. Together they welcomed three daughters: Tylene, Teri , and Tonya.

Ken worked for UPS before opening a lawn mower repair shop in Simi Valley, California, while earning his pilot’s license. In 1974, he returned to Wyoming after separating jo with his wife. He worked for his lifelong friend until he got a job at the airport. Flying was far more than a hobby—it was Ken’s true passion. He dedicated decades to aviation, earning his commercial pilot’s license, teaching countless students to fly, and inspiring generations of pilots. He worked as a private pilot for KG Construction, flew commercially in Paducah, Kentucky, instructed at JAL Flight School in Suisun City, California, and later returned to Gillette, Wyoming, where he owned several airplanes and continued flying privately for many years.

During the winters, Ken spent time in Arizona, where he continued teaching others to fly. There, he met the love of his life, Donna Solberg. Together they enjoyed traveling, spending time with family, and making treasured memories over the last decade.

Even after a lifetime in the skies, Ken’s love for aviation never faded. He sold his final airplane at the remarkable age of 88 before retiring. In November 2025 he became a great-great-grandfather. Shortly before his passing, he was blessed to gather with the five generations for a special photograph—a memory his family will cherish forever.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former students, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Ken is survived by his daughters, Tylene Teri and Tonya; his sister Jan, Mary, and Gayle; six grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. He also leaves behind many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters Elizabeth and Zandra; brother Glen.

In lieu of flowers, donations made to the family will go towards the Ken Reynolds Scholarship at Sheridan Pilots / 307 Flight School, helping future generations pursue the dream that meant so much to Ken.

Funeral Service will be held August 16 @ 2:00pm at the Lasting Legacy Park Amphitheater. Reception to follow at The Butte Apartment 4800 Tanner Dr. in the reception room on the west end