Kenneth Stahl

Waynesville, Kenneth Kendal Stahl, 78, completed his life’s journey and entered into his heavenly home March 8, 2021 at Mission Hospital, Asheville, North Carolina.

A native of Haywood County, he was the son of the late Kenneth Augustus Stahl and Joan Phillips Stahl Francis of Waynesville, and the stepson of the late William Herman Francis also of Waynesville.  Also preceding him were his late father-in-law and mother-in-law Charles and Frankie Johnson of Canton whom he loved dearly.

Kenneth was a graduate of Waynesville Township High School Class of 1960.  He studied a year at Virginia Tech Institute and transferred to Western Carolina University where he graduated with a BS in Industrial Technology.  Kenneth was very proud of his military service to his country. He attended USAF Officers School, Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas.  After additional training at Chanute Air Force Base in Rantoul, Illinois, he served with the 779th Tactical Airlift Squadron, Pope AFB, Fayetteville, North Carolina where he attained the grade of Captain.  He continued his service in the USAF Retired Reserve with the Civil Air Patrol until his retirement in September 1981.  Kenneth continued with his education and received his Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Western Carolina University.  He worked in executive management for both Dayco Corporation and Ecusta Corporation.  After his career in management, he formed two corporations to develop and manage commercial properties.  These properties located in Haywood County, included four franchised motels and an apartment complex.  Ken served on the Tourism Development Authority and the Waynesville Board of Adjustment.  He enjoyed many friendships especially enjoyed times spent with his Supper Club friends.  Ken was a member of The First Baptist Church of Waynesville.

Ken is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Jean Johnson Stahl; his children, Kendra Stahl Wilson and David of Boone, North Carolina, Gregory Johnson Stahl of Raleigh, North Carolina, Jeffrey Kendal Stahl and Angela of Asheville; two granddaughters, Samantha Stahl, of Raleigh and Trinity Stahl of Asheville; a sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Jan Johnson Williams and Dan of Salisbury; his much loved beagle, Bentley, and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and a host of friends and colleagues.

A private service will be held at a later date.  Entombment will be in the Garrett-Hillcrest Memorial Mausoleum in Waynesville, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to SARGE’S Animal Rescue Foundation, PO Box 854, Waynesville, NC 28786 or Friends of the Haywood County Animal Shelter, PO Box 142, Waynesville, NC 28786.

The care of Kenneth has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home of Waynesville.