Kenneth Kinard Miles

In Loving Memory of Kenneth "Grandude" Miles

Kenneth "Grandude" Miles, age 80, passed away on January 24, 2024, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Born on March 4, 1943, in Westpoint, New York, Kenneth led a life marked by dedication to his country, love for his family, and a passion for his hobbies.

A figure of strength and guidance, Kenneth cherished his role as a father to his daughters and sons-in-law, Stephanie with husband Jeff Hix and Jennifer with Husband Jarrod Likar, and reveled in the growth and achievements of his cherished grandchildren, Jackson, Brayden, Makena, and Madisyn. His unwavering support extended to every aspect of their lives, earning him the affectionate title of "Grandude" among their friends and teammates. Grandude will forever be an honorary New Mexico Bear as he spent countless days in his favorite chair cheering on his beloved Bears. Family and friends will treasure the memory of hearing Grandude yell "Bears in the Forest" as one of his grandsons went up to bat.

He leaves behind a loving extended family that includes his brother, Ed Miles; sister, Karen Wells, and many nieces and nephews.   Kenneth was preceded in death by parents Ed and Elizabeth Miles, Mary Teresa Miles; sister, Monte Beth Rasmussen; and brother, Ricky Miles.

Kenneth's exemplary service to his country was demonstrated through his graduation from the Naval Academy at Annapolis and his subsequent service as a Lieutenant Commander in the Navy. As a Naval Aviator, he carried out missions in Vietnam with valor. His post-military career as a safety engineer at Sandia National Labs was characterized by the same level of commitment until his retirement in 2005. Known for his expertise in Pressure and Vacuum safety, and explosives he was highly respected by his colleagues at the Labs, the US Department of Energy, and the entire Safety Engineering Department. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Grandude had a passion for collecting trains. Over the years, he amassed a vast collection of trains, enjoyed traveling to conventions, and entering train modeling competitions. 

The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in a Celebration of Life service on February 12, 2024, at 10:00 am at FRENCH-Wyoming 7121 Wyoming Blvd NE Albuquerque, NM 87109. Interment will follow at Santa Fe National Cemetery, where he will be accorded full military honors.

Kenneth "Grandude" Miles will be remembered fondly for his honorable service, his devotion to his family, and the joy he brought to all who knew him. His legacy will continue to live on in the lives of his four beloved grandchildren.