Kenneth (Ken) Carl Heinonen, a proud native of Finlayson, MN, passed away peacefully at the Little Falls Care Center on November 23, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on March 22, 1936, to Kaarlo and Elsie (Koivuniemi) Heinonen, Ken was a full-blooded Finn who cherished his Finlander heritage and his hometown.

Ken was an intelligent and resourceful man who graduated from DeVry Technical Institute in Chicago with an AAS in Electronic Design and Technology. His career included over 20 years managing the Western Union Field Center for Central Minnesota in St. Cloud, where he served as a customer service engineer. He had a knack for fixing just about anything—from electronics, to tv's and microwaves. In his spare time, Ken enjoyed woodworking, playing the accordion, and taking long walks.

Ken's family was incredibly important to him. He is survived by his daughter Kristie (Gene) Thomsen from Rice, MN; his son, Karl Heinonen, of Mora, MN; and his beloved grandchildren, Mychal Thomsen of St. Cloud, MN, Mariah Thomsen of Bozman, MT, and Michelle (Austin) Thomsen-Rands of Cabool, MO, along with their daughter, Aurora, Ken's first great grandchild. Ken also leaves behind his sister, Doris Brandle of Shoreview, MN, and his brother, Fred (Pauline) Heinonen, of Marine on the St. Croix, MN. He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Carol Jean; his daughter, Kathy Marie; and his sister, Lorraine Chesbrough.

A memorial service to honor Ken will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Finlayson, MN, with Gene Thomsen officiating. Family and friends will have an hour to gather and share their memories before the service begins. Following the service, Ken will be laid to rest at the Finnish Lutheran Cemetery with military honors.

Ken will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

Arrangements by Methven Funeral and Cremation Services of Sandstone, MN.