Kenneth Knighten

Kenneth Knighten, 86, of San Diego, California, passed away on October 6, 2026. He was born on July 4, 1940, in Chicago, Illinois.

Kenneth was the son of Eunice Knighten and the stepson of Reverend William Knighten. He spent his early years in Omaha, Nebraska, with Dorothy and Clarence Shelby before joining his mother and stepfather in Chicago. His siblings included Diane Knighten, Michael Knighten, Jackie Knighten, and Ethel Hicks. Some of his fondest childhood memories included camping on the family’s back porch with his brother and their dogs. He also served as an altar boy in the church.

During the summers, Kenneth and his siblings traveled to Omaha and then to Covert, Michigan, where they spent time with their maternal relatives, the Hubbards, on a mink farm. These visits brought him together with his many aunts, uncles, and cousins, creating lasting memories of time spent with his extended family.

As teenagers, Kenneth and his brother shared a close bond and a strong work ethic. They rose at 4:30 each morning to deliver newspapers before heading to school. Kenneth attended Englewood High School in Chicago, where he participated in basketball, cross-country, and track and field and was a member of the Lettermen’s Association. His creativity also emerged during these years, when he was admitted to the Art Institute of Chicago and took classes while attending high school. On Friday nights, he enjoyed attending dances at the Rotary Club.

After graduating from Englewood High School in 1958, Kenneth took classes at Wilson Junior College before joining the United States Navy. His service took him to Okinawa, Japan; Great Lakes; and San Diego, California. He completed his naval service in 1962.

Following his naval service, Kenneth began a successful career as a hairdresser in Chicago. He later moved to Arizona, where he opened Martin Kenneth Hair Salon in Old Town Scottsdale. Known among his colleagues as “The Master,” Kenneth earned respect for his talent, creativity, and dedication to his craft. He participated in numerous hair shows and became a mentor to aspiring hairdressers. His influence extended beyond hairstyling, as he encouraged others to develop their abilities and pursue leadership opportunities within the industry.

Kenneth later made his home in La Jolla, California, continuing to work with longtime clients in both La Jolla and Scottsdale. Many remained with him for more than 30 years. The relationships he built were an important part of his career, and he continued cutting hair for a select group of special clients well into his eighties.

Kenneth married Rosie Lee, and they welcomed their daughter, KenLee, in 1965. Their marriage later ended in divorce. He subsequently married Mary Reichenboach in Chicago, and the couple later moved to Scottsdale, Arizona. They welcomed their daughter, Shaun, in 1975 and their son, Brandon, in 1977.

As a father, Kenneth was dependable, funny, and a wonderful cook. His easygoing presence, sense of humor, and “go with the flow” attitude brought warmth to the time he spent with family and friends. He loved music and enjoyed attending concerts in his younger years. An avid sports fan, he especially enjoyed watching basketball, golf, and football.

Away from the salon, Kenneth found happiness aboard his boat in Mission Bay and in the friendships he formed around the marina. He was especially proud to be retired and living at the marina, enjoying life by the water.

Kenneth was preceded in death by his sisters, Diane Knighten, Jackie Knighten, and Ethel Hicks. He is survived by his children, KenLee Knighten of Chicago, Shaun Knighten, and Brandon Knighten; his four grandchildren, Kenya Jelks and Gerald Jelks of Chicago, Blake Knighten, and Breanne Knighten; his brother, Michael Knighten; and a host of extended family members, dear friends, colleagues, and devoted clients.

Kenneth’s memory will be treasured by those who knew and loved him. His humor, love for his family, creativity, and encouragement will live on in the memories of those closest to him and in the many people he inspired throughout his life.