Kenneth Duane Karns, better known as "Kenny" by his family and friends, was born July 11, 1954, in Martin, South Dakota to Morris and Betty (Ferguson) Karns. Kenny attended school in Martin and graduated from Bennett County High School in 1972. During his younger years he enjoyed riding and racing dirt bikes, horseback riding and trap shooting tournaments. In high school he participated in legion baseball and basketball. Kenny was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish.

Kenny also enjoyed reading and always had a book in his hands and pockets. In the late 1970s he moved to Nome, Alaska where he worked on the northern slopes dredging gold and later welding on the pipeline. After moving to Anchorage, he worked in Prudhoe Bay operating heavy equipment.

Kenny married Alfie Aquino on July 6, 1992, and to this union were born two children: Micah and Courtney Karns. His children were his pride and joy.

Kenny lived each day to the fullest - it is not the years we spend on earth, but the love we share while here.

Survivors include his wife Alfie Karns of California; son Michah Karns of Atlanta, GA; daughter Courtney Karns of Anchorage, AK; two brothers Richard "Dick" (Karen) Karns of Aurora, CO and Kim Karns of Rapid City; sister Jill (Doug) Drolc of Spearfish; and a host of other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Morris and Betty Karns.

Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 12, at Lindsey Memorial Presbyterian Church in Martin with Reverend Lisa Danielson officiating.

Interment will follow at the Martin Community Cemetery.

Fellowship of family and friends will follow at Susan's H&H in Martin.

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