Kenneth J. Ortwein

Frederick Funeral Home is assisting the Family

Obituary via Frederick Funeral Home

In loving memory of Kenneth J. Ortwein, who was born on January 19, 1935, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the cherished son of the late Charles and Henrietta Ortwein. Kenneth peacefully passed away on March 18, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, skill, and devotion.

Kenneth was a loving husband to the late Shirley Ortwein for 36 remarkable years and former husband of Carole Brock. He was a dedicated father to his children: Karen Hildebrand, Kathy (Duane) Yeazel, Kim (Jeff) Fritsch, Kristy Stewart, and Kraig (Charissa) Ortwein. He took immense pride in being a grandfather to Ed Probst, Kyle (Sol) Hildebrand, Lindsey (Brian) Wissel, Krystle (Jason) Atkins, Jesse Fritsch Sr., Katie Yeazel, Brittany Stewart, Nikki Stewart, Raven Ortwein, Matthew Ortwein, and Jake Ortwein. His heart swelled with joy as he became a great grandfather to Nicholas, Jesse Jr., Kenadi, Ella, Hailey, and Charlotte. Kenneth was also a dear brother to Roger (Judy) Ortwein, Michael (Debbie) Ortwein, and Treta Ortwein. He was a loving stepfather to the late Marcia (Richard) Krusenklaus and Darlene (David Stowe) Soell, with whom he shared many cherished moments. He will be lovingly remembered by his step-grandchildren:  Michelle (Jason) Jeffries, Alicia Mitchell, Missy Holley and Timothy Soell Jr and step great grandchildren: Addison, Alek, Norah, Alana, Johnny, Jayvier and Jessica, all whom held a special place in his heart, enriching his life with their laughter and love.

Kenneth was a devout Catholic, finding solace and strength in his faith as a member of St. James Parish for over 55 years. Known for his remarkable talent with his hands, he worked as a lineman for Cincinnati Bell Telephone and showcased his carpentry skills for Ortwein Builders. Whether upgrading his own home or lending a hand to others, Kenneth’s tinkering brought joy to many. He loved entertaining family and friends, especially during cookouts aided by his custom-built keg area, all while enjoying a cold beer and laughter shared among loved ones. He was a passionate golfer, well-known in the Wormburners league, and an avid supporter of the Cincinnati Bengals, embodying the spirit of community and family. His laughter, affection, and stories will be missed but never forgotten.

We invite family and friends to join us in celebrating Kenneth’s extraordinary life. A visitation will be held at Frederick Funeral Home, 2553 Banning Rd., on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. James Church – White Oak, 3565 Hubble Rd, Cincinnati at 10:30 AM, honoring a life well-lived. Following the service at St. James burial will be at Arlington Memorial Gardens. The family kindly requests that donations be made to St. James Parish or to Hospice of Cincinnati, P.O. Box 633597, Cincinnati, OH 45263-3597, in recognition of the compassionate care that Kenneth received during his final days. Kenneth J. Ortwein’s spirit will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. May his love, stories, and laughter remain a cherished part of our lives as we remember a man who truly made a difference.