Col. Kenneth Earl Rosebush, Jr.

Kenneth “Ken” Earl Rosebush, Jr. died on September 29, 2024 in Aurora, CO. Ken was born July 21, 1950 in Lubbock, TX, the son of Kenneth Earl Rosebush, Sr. and Ethel (Pearson) Rosebush. 

He is survived by his wife Janice (Clark) Rosebush, daughter Lisa (Rosebush) Knurek (Tim), sons Scott (Krista) and Kyle (Danielle), and grandchildren Emma, Grace, Simone, Mara, Lola, Stella, and a grandson (expected in October 2024). Other survivors include brother Mike Rosebush, Russ Rosebush (Kay), and brother-in-law Kendall Clark (Maraline). Ken earned the nickname “Dusty” during the family’s windy weather times in Texas. He’s known as “Uncle Dusty” by his brothers’ children Clint (Kelly), Krista (Eric), and Shannon (Austin).

Ken was raised in a military family and lived in nine different locations growing up. He graduated from Mt. Clemens high school in Detroit, MI in 1968 where he served as senior class president and excelled in academics, football, and basketball.

Ken’s hero was his father, and he followed in his footsteps by serving his country in the United States Air Force. Ken received a presidential appointment to attend the United States Air Force Academy in 1968. During his time at the USAFA, he met and began dating Janice. They married in December 1972 and remained married until his passing. Ken and Janice’s marriage was a loving relationship that was joyously commemorated by a special 50th anniversary celebration with family in 2022.

Ken served honorably in the Air Force for 27 years before retiring as Colonel. His assignments included Vandenberg, Eglin, Peterson, Clear, the Pentagon, and F.E. Warren. He was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with four oak leaf clusters, and Air Force Commendation Medal. Ken maintained and valued the deep connections he made with his fellow patriots in the USAF. Following his service in the Air Force, Ken continued to contribute to the Aerospace and Defense industry including a variety of leadership roles and assignments.

Ken retired in 2005, electing to spend his time with his family. He was “Papa” to his six grand-girls with whom he prioritized spending time, reading books, and playing games. He loved supporting his favorite sports teams the Air Force Falcons and the Denver Broncos and frequently watched them with his beloved dog Rudy on his lap.

Kenneth’s legacy of love and commitment will be cherished by all who knew him.  In his honor, a ceremony at the USAFA will take place on Tuesday, October 8th at 1 pm at the Air Force Academy Memorial Pavilion and cemetery.  A reception at the Blue and Silver room at the Eisenhower golf clubhouse (USAFA) will follow.

Please bring a valid government issued ID or current Driver License to enter the Air Force Academy

While we mourn his passing, he will be remembered and celebrated, and his legacy will live on through his family.

It was Ken’s wish that any memorial tribute be made as charitable donations to the Myeloma Research Fund at giving.cu.edu/rosebush or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation at T2T.org.