Kenneth A. Plonka

Kenneth Alvin Plonka, a devoted educator, lifelong athlete, and man of profound faith, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2026, at the age of 82.

Born on October 2, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, Kenneth was the cherished son of the late Albin and Wanda Plonka. Raised in Dearborn, his early years were rooted in his faith and community. He attended St. Barbara Catholic School and spent his first three years of high school discerning a vocation to the priesthood at Sacred Heart Seminary. He completed his secondary education at the University of Detroit High School, graduating with the class of 1961. Following his graduation, he pursued his passion for guiding youth by earning a degree in education from the University of Detroit College.

Kenneth dedicated his career to the service of others as a respected educator. He impacted countless young lives through his work at St. Cecilia’s, Crestwood Schools, and the W.J. Maxey Training School for Boys. A man of exceptional work ethic, Kenneth frequently balanced multiple professional endeavors. Over the years, he served his community at the Dearborn Youth Center, supported his brothers Art and Al, at the tax office, and successfully operated his own Road Test Company for driver's education.

An enthusiastic sports fan and athlete, Kenneth’s love for the Detroit Tigers was matched only by his passion for competitive softball, a sport he actively played on three different teams until the age of 75. Above all, his greatest joy was supporting his children and grandchildren in their athletic endeavors. He was a constant, cheering presence in the stands, never missing a game—even when it required leaving work early.

Kenneth’s enduring legacy is his unwavering faith and his unique capacity to make every person he encountered feel uniquely loved and valued. His life was enriched by deep bonds with his family, friends, and neighbors.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, Albin and Wanda Plonka, and his brother, Alvin Plonka.

He is survived by his devoted children, Lisa (Sean) Dunleavy, Michelle (Bill) Gischia, and Ken (Cinnamon) Plonka. He remains a guiding light to his seven grandchildren, Billy Jr. (Tess), Briana (Tyler), Gabrielle (Thomas), Nicholas, Elise, Ava, Princeton, and his great-grandson, Jude. He is also survived by his brother, Art (Margaret), his sister, Cindy (Dave), numerous nieces and nephews, and cousins.

Visitation Sunday, August 16, 2026 from 3-8 pm at Neely-Turowski Funeral Home, 45100 Warren Rd., Canton, MI 48187. Instate Monday, August 17, 2026, 10:30am until the time of mass, at 11am at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 44800 Warren Rd., Canton, MI 48187.