Mr. Kenneth James Canipe, 87, of Valdese, was led to his heavenly home by a band of angels, on Sunday, July 30, 2023, in his home after a period of declining health. He died peacefully surrounded by his loving family, holding the hand of his bride, and loyal companion, his dog Katie who was always by his side.

Ken was born May 31, 1936, in Burke County, the son of the late Zennie Canipe and Marie Griffin Canipe Biggs. He was an active East Valdese Baptist Church member, a faithful Christian, and a deacon. After twenty-four years of service, he retired as a service technician from Duke Energy. Ken also was a proud veteran of the US Army. During his lifetime he deeply loved his family and enjoyed many activities like hunting, camping, sports, and cheering on the Braves.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Ellen Beach and Carolyn Clark, and two infant sisters.

Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of sixty-five years, Reba Nichols Canipe of the home, and four daughters, Tanya Boughman and husband Billy, Lisa Queen and husband Doug, and Jami Bryant and husband David all of Valdese, and Sheila Elliott and husband Steve of Pembroke, Virginia. Also a sister Rita Nichols and husband Luther “Buck” and a brother Neil Pitts and wife Elaine, all of Drexel.

Also surviving are the apples of his eye, his grandchildren, Kenny Stephens (Becca), Robby Stephens (Elizabeth), Lauren Whitson (Chris), B.J. Boughman (Cierra), Holly Queen (Brandon Parker), Kenlee Bridges (Nick), Jordan Harbison, Triniti Lambert (Coy). His great-grandchildren, Griffin and Parker Stephens, Bella and Judah Whitson, Kylie Corpening, Jonah Boughman, Xander Queen, Liam and Walt Stephens, God granddaughter, Mariah Cantrell Leary,  and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends Thursday, August 3rd, 2023 from 3:00 P.M. until 4:45 P.M. at East Valdese Baptist Church and the funeral service will follow at 5:00 P.M. with Pastor Ken Gillen  and Rev. David Orders officiating. Graveside services are to follow with military honors by the North Carolina Army  National Guard at Burke Memorial Park Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to East Valdese Baptist Church, 101 Eldred St. SE, Valdese, NC 28690.

An online guestbook and obituary are available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com.

Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory is assisting the Canipe Family.