Remembering Ken Stevens


CMU alum, renowned MLive photographer worked closely with students


kenstevens
Courtesy Photo | Natalie Kolb

Ken Stevens, long-time Muskegon Chronicle photographer and a 1985 Central Michigan University graduate, died unexpectedly on Oct. 20, leaving a hole in the hearts of all who worked and lived with him

Stevens spent more than two decades of his career capturing the joys and tragedies of life in western Michigan. He leaves behind a wife and two children, according to a story about his life and work published on MLive Muskegon.

“What that (article) shows was his wide breath of skill in still shooting in any situation, his understanding of the community and understanding of people,” said Peg West, editor of the Muskegon Chronicle. “I think with any good photojournalist, it’s something that goes beyond skill of the eye, it’s the anticipation and understanding of the story. He was very much able to do that.

“We’ve had just an outpouring of support from the community.”

Aside from his daily duties as one of the newspaper’s top photographers and multi-media specialists, Stevens was a prominent flag bearer for CMU – particularly its journalism department and Central Michigan Life.

Jim Wojcik, a professor in the department and a former CM Life advisor, said that Stevens’ spirit and work ethic were exceptional.

“He was just a tremendous person; they don’t make them like him anymore. I can’t think of anyone nicer than he was,” Wojcik said. “In all my 30 years of knowing him, from the time he entered in as a freshman, he was just dearly dedicated to his work.”

Talented, poignant and professorial are all words colleagues and friends used to describe Stevens. Wojcik will always call attention to Stevens’ kindness as his defining quality.

“What often gets overlooked – he was a tremendous photographer and he really jumped with both feet into producing multi-media content, he adapted – but what was so impressive was that I don’t think I’ve heard him in 30 years ever speak a negative word about another person or an institution,” he said. “He lifted up everyone around him, he made them better, and was extremely loyal to CMU.”

Stevens made time to come back to his alma matter for workshops and other mentorship activities for young journalists. He also worked closely with interns, many of whom were current students or recent graduates of CMU.

“What we’ve been picking up from people was that they always felt like they mattered,” West said. “Ken was a consistent teacher, very encouraging; he always let you know if you needed to improve, but did it in a way that didn’t make you feel small. He made you feel like one of the gang immediately.”

Stevens’ funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Oct. 27 at Grace Lutheran Church, 2651 Shettler Road, Muskegon. A visitation is scheduled between 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. on Oct. 26 at Klaassen Funeral Home, 1500 Robbins Road, Grand Haven.

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About Ben Solis

Ben Solis is the Managing Editor of Central Michigan Life. He has served as a city and university ...

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