Kenneth Oliver Thrasher

Kenneth Oliver Thrasher, 74, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away at Tulare District Hospital on Sunday, June 5, 2022, just one day short of his 75th birthday.

He was born on June 6, 1947 to George Benton and Lillian Marie Thrasher in Tulare, where he resided his whole life.

He leaves behind the love of his life, his wife, Deborah of 38 years, as well as their children; 6 daughters; Kelly Bottoms (Jeffrey) of Visalia CA., Becky Kilz (Justin) of Skaneateles, NY., Lisa Escalante (Karl), Phoenix Thrasher, Luanne Thrasher, all living in Tulare, CA. and Jenna Herndon (Dane) of Bakersfield, CA. Six sons, Cary Thrasher (Tammy) of Murrieta, CA., Jason Gilliland, (Alisha-deceased), Jeremy Gilliland, Johnathan Gilliland (Rachelle), Kenneth Jared Thrasher (Stephani), and Jaiden Thrasher, all from Tulare, CA. He was blessed to have an abundant family, which includes 23 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He has one sister, Pat Stephens, St. Mary’s, GA. and two older brothers; George C. Thrasher (Shelia) of Hampton, GA., and Benjamin Thrasher, who preceded him in death.

He graduated from Tulare Union High School, and worked for Steve’s Auto Electric, where he received his first opportunity to perform electrical repairs, which led to his future career as an electrician. It also gave him the opportunity to work with and learn from his Father, George. In the early eighties, Ken obtained his electrical contractors license and took over the electrical business, Big T Electric. Ken also was a volunteer fire fighter for the City of Tulare…it was in his blood, his Father George worked in the fire service for 30 years.

Ken loved cooking and grilling, he was always on the lookout for new spices and kitchen gadgets to add to his collection. He enjoyed playing golf whenever possible, especially when he could play with his sons. He was the coach for all of his children’s sports teams, where he inspired and taught his players, most of which still call him “Mr. Coach”. Ken always had a smile on his face and was known for his sense of humor, he always had a snappy comeback that made his friends and family laugh. Everyone knew he would go out of his way to help in any situation. He spent a majority of his free time volunteering at Tulare Emergency Aid where he organized and picked up donations to the food pantry. Ken was the most humble, selfless, and amazing man. He loved everyone around him and they loved him, he will be forever missed.

A visitation will be held at First Baptist Church on Thursday, June 9th from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm. Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 11 at 11:00 am.