Kenneth H. Dana

Kenneth H. Dana was born on August 11, 1946, in Afton, Wyoming, to Charlie and Elaine Dana. He passed away on October 18, 2026, in Scenic, Arizona, at the age of 80. He passed peacefully in his home surrounded by his children and his wife, his best friend.

Ken grew up working alongside his dad on the ranch, where he learned the value of hard work and developed a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. He loved fishing, hunting, and spending time in the mountains and backcountry. He was always happy to talk about the weather and never seemed to run out of stories to tell.

Throughout his life, Ken made friends wherever he went. He seemed to know someone in every town and always made time to stop by to visit an old friend or check on someone who’d been sick. He had a genuine interest in people and a way of making others feel remembered and cared for.

Ken took great pride in his work and earned a reputation as one of the best finish motor grader operators in the country. He worked with the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service, maintaining dirt roads throughout Bridger-Teton backcountry and blowing up beaver dams that would wash out his roads. His work took him into some of the most beautiful country in the region, where he also spent time as a hunting guide and outfitter in the Granite Creek area of the Hoback. In addition to his working life, Ken proudly served six years in the Army National Guard.

One of his most meaningful accomplishments was his 24 years of sobriety. Through Alcoholics Anonymous, Ken served as a sponsor and helped many others in their recovery. By sharing his own experience and offering steady support, he made a lasting difference in the lives of those he helped. His commitment to sobriety and service to others became an important part of his legacy.

Ken is survived by his three sisters, Terry Stayner, Debra Burnham, and Leisa Dana; his wife of 32 years, Lesli; and his children: Kipp Dana (Terri) of Thayne, Wyoming; Stacey Dana of Thayne, Wyoming; Bryn Crawford (Dan) of Dallas, Texas; Nick Dana (Heather) of Francis, Utah; Randi Fano (Oscar) of Spanish Fork, Utah; Weston Herring (Bryli) of Douglas, Wyoming and his Baby Dog. He also leaves behind many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry his memory forward.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Elaine; his son, Kolton Herring; and his grandson, Brock Crawford.

Ken will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, his wonderful stories, his easy friendship, and his willingness to help others. He will be missed by his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched throughout his years in recovery. His life was shaped not only by the work he did and the places he loved, but also by the people he cared for and the lasting difference he made in their lives.

We invite all whose life was touched by Ken to join us for a Celebration of Life on October 30, 2026 at the Thayne LDS Chapel (276 Dana St, Thayne, WY 83127) at 6:00 PM.