OTTUMWA [mdash]Kenneth Paul Williams, 78, of Ottumwa, passed away on August 5, 2025 at his home. He was born on January 10, 1947 in Ottumwa, Iowa, to Dave and Louise Williams. Ken lived a full and multifaceted life dedicated to service, music, ministry, and community. A gifted musician, Ken played in several bands over the years, including The New Generations, Country Squires, Mourning Glory, Hard Feelings and Silver Eagle, sharing his love of music with many. Ken had a deep and abiding love for the music and poetry of Bob Dylan. A true Dylan devotee, he amassed an extensive collection of albums, books, and memorabilia, and attended several of Dylan's concerts over the years. Dylan's lyrics resonated with Ken's own spirit and unwavering sense of authenticity. A proud nonconformist, Ken lived life on his own terms, guided by a strong inner compass. He never hesitated to challenge the status quo. Ken served on the Ottumwa City Council for seven years, where he played a key role in impactful community projects, including the construction of the law enforcement center, the remodeling of Central Park and its bandstand, and the launch of a successful derelict housing program. He was also an ordained Presbyterian minister and served as pastor of First United Presbyterian Church in Aledo, Illinois, for six years. He held degrees from Iowa State University and Northeast Missouri State University and earned a Master of Divinity from the University of Dubuque Seminary. Many will remember Ken as a familiar voice on the radio. He worked for years as a DJ and later as News Director for KLEE/KOTM, and even came out of retirement to host the popular "Dialogue" program on KLEE. His passion for helping others also led him to Tenco Industries, where he served in several roles, including Adult Basic Education teacher, director of the Center of Hope, and later as facility manager in Fairfield. One of Ken's greatest joys in life was fishing. He found peace and fulfillment in quiet moments on the water, waiting for that thrill of the catch. Whether it was at Lake Keomah, Lake Darling, Lake Wapello, or Pioneer Ridge, Ken had a special connection to nature and the serenity that fishing brought him. Ken is survived by his wife, Jolie; daughters, Jennifer Williams of Ames and Melanie (Shawn) Paulk of Ottumwa; stepdaughters Chloe (Jason) Benson of Boone and Anna (Shane) Peters of North Bend, Oregon; eight beloved grandchildren: Dylan Paulk, Sydney (Draya) Paulk, William Adams, Maggie Benson, Ryder Benson, Kadence Peters, Hudson Peters, and Brynnlee Peters; and his sister, Mary (Tom) Chance of Ottumwa. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Joanne Steele. His body has been cremated. A time to celebrate his life may be held at a later date. Reece Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.