Kenneth Kollman

Kenneth Eugene “Kenny” Kollman, age 74, of Jamestown, ND, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, under the care of Hospice.

Ken was born July 15, 1952, in Jamestown, ND, to Harold and Annie Jean (Bennett) Kollman. He was raised on the family farm, near Bordulac, ND, and attended school in Kensal, ND. From a young age, Ken understood the meaning of hard work, lending a hand on the farm, and working for Marv Wanamaker, during his high school years. Those early days shaped the man he became—steady, dependable, and quietly strong. He grew up surrounded by his siblings, sharing a life rooted in family, resilience, and deep connection.

Kenny attended college at NDSCS, in Wahpeton, ND, and began his career as a Welder at Haybuster Manufacturing, in Jamestown. Later, his path took him to Grand Island, Nebraska, where he worked for Roll-A-Home. He returned home to North Dakota, after the passing of his father, working alongside his brother Alden at Fertile Wise. Ken later worked for many years at the North Dakota State Hospital, Forensics Unit (mid-80’s, early 90’s). He also worked at Alpha Opportunities, and this was his most valued employment, getting to help “his people”.

In January of 1982, Ken married the love of his life, his long-time “crush,” Susan. From that moment on, they were rarely apart. Their love was constant, steady, and deeply rooted—a true partnership. They built a life centered on love, laughter, and family. Ken stepped into the role of father and grandfather with his whole heart. He was a devoted second father to Susan’s daughter, Amy, and a proud and loving “Papa” to Austin and Adrienne. In his later years, nothing brought him more joy than his great-grandchildren—Icy, Zoey, Terry, and Colton —who he adored beyond words. The time he spent loving, teaching, and simply holding them will forever be cherished.

Ken was the kind of man you could count on—generous, loyal, honest, and fair. He believed in people, often giving many second (and third) chances, when others would give up. He was the steady rock so many leaned on, always there with quiet strength, wisdom, and a heart that gave more than it ever asked for in return. He found joy in the simple things: hunting, cooking, playing Pinochle, keeping up with current events, and tracing the stories of his family through genealogy. He loved a good debate and had a way of challenging those around him to think deeper and see things differently. He was quick-witted, a bit of a prankster, and someone who could make you feel at home just by being in his presence.

Kenny’s wife, Susan, of 44 years, passed away on March 14, 2026. This was a great loss for Papa Ken, and he was deeply grateful to spend his last few weeks with close family and friends, telling stories and keeping us all entertained. While we had hoped for a little more time, we take comfort in knowing that they are together again. We will carry Papa with us in every lesson he taught, every story he told, every laugh he gave, and every quiet act of love that defined who he was. He cared for us in so many ways, big and small; and shaped our lives more than words can ever express. To know him was to be loved by him—and that is something we will never let go. We’ll see you in the stars, Nimrod!

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Pamela Susan Kollman; two brothers, Neal Kollman and Keith Kollman; a close brother-in-law Jim Hayes; and nephew, Sean Kollman. He is survived by his stepson, Jason (Mindy) Dunwoody, daughter, Amy Dunwoody; grandchildren Trevor Dunwoody, Austin Gensburger (Amber Moller), Gage Dunwoody (Marlee), and Adrienne Dunwoody (Justin Albrecht); great-grandchildren Isyss, Zoey, Terry, Colton, Gibbons, and Judson; brothers Alden (Landa) Kollman, David (Darlene) Kollman, and Gordon (Karen) Kollman; sisters Ann Sveen and Patricia (Terry) Hoyt; many other cherished and loved nieces, nephews, cousins, and long-time family friends.

Ken’s children and grandchildren are immensely grateful for the compassionate and dignified care provided by the nurses and staff of the JRMC Hospice program. In lieu of cards or flowers, the family asks for continued support of this remarkable program. Donations can be made to: JRMC Hospice, 2422 20th St. SW, Jamestown, ND 58401.

Celebration of Life – 10:30 a.m., Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Eddy Funeral Home, Jamestown. A reception will follow at the Pingree Café, Pingree, ND.