Kenneth Shockey

Kenneth G. Shockey passed away peacefully in Alamogordo surrounded by his family on December 3, 2009.
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Ken was born on August 13, 1926 in Oklahoma City, OK. His early years were spent in Las Vegas and Stanley, NM. He served in the Pacific Theater in the Navy during WWII. After leaving the military he attended college at New Mexico State University. He was a member of the New Mexico State Police from 1953-1980. He had various stations throughout this time, including serving as a driver and body guard for Governor John Simms. His remaining 7 years were spent as a Lieutenant District Supervisor in Otero and Lincoln County.
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After retiring in 1980, Ken became Chief of Security for Ruidoso-Sunland Race Tracks. Ken had a natural love of horses and was a member of the Thoroughbred Racing Protective Bureau.
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He was a life member of the fraternal order of Elks and was Exalted Ruler of the Ruidoso Elks Lodge 2086 in 2005-06.
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He married Eleanor McClendon on November 11, 1978. He inherited two daughters at that time, Linda Mallett and Bonnie McClendon. He had a very loving relationship with them both. They always referred to Ken as their Bonus Dad and he was a great father figure for them. Ken projected an imposing exterior as an officer but to those who knew and loved him, he had a huge and kind heart. His sense of humor was legendary. He sometimes categorized himself a diamond in the rough.
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Ken is survived by his wife of 31 years, Eleanor, two daughters, Linda Steve Mallett of Tempe, AZ and Bonnie Craig Bowden of Chandler, AZ. Grandchildren: LaTisha Sopha Russ, Kristy Stephens Randy, Mandy Hank Mike, Jordan Ray, Lindsay Bowden, Cadyn Bowden and Trenten Bowden. Brother Jim and wife, Ouita of Alamogordo, NM. Sister Aurelia and brother in law, Ted of Richmond, VA. Sister Beverly Don-deceased McElroy of Moriarity, NM. Nephews: Pete Shockey deceased and wife Wanda. Jerry Mary Shockey. Jay Maria Shockey. James Barbara Sellman. Clarence Sylvia McElroy. Nieces: La Donna Plew Wes, Denise Stabb Mark, Kelly Vejar Gil.
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Cousins: Bob Edwards, Bill Cheryl Foote and David Nella Foote.
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Ken also had 8 Great Grandchildren: Colton, Cassity, Garrett, Carson, Kaitlyn, Pierce, Reagan and Hunter and many grand nieces and nephews.
brPMemorial Service will be held Saturday, January 16, 2010 at LaGrone Funeral Chapel in Ruidoso with Darrell Winter, Racetrack Chaplain officiating. Following the service there will be a reception at the Elks's Lodge on Highway 70.br

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