Kenneth Rogers McNary, 83, died peacefully at his home in Durham, North Carolina on Friday, October 12, 2012. Born in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, Ken married the love of his life, Janet Elaine McNary née Eckert in 1957 after meeting her on a blind date while on leave from the Navy. He completed his education and was graduated with honors from Carnegie Tech. They and their three girls lived together in Poughkeepsie and Hyde Park in New York’s Hudson River Valley. Ken worked as an electrical engineer for IBM where he was awarded patents for computer hardware and earned an Outstanding Contribution Award. In 1983, he moved to Chapel Hill, North Carolina where he eventually retired.

Ken and Jan loved to travel together. He also enjoyed photography, painting, wood working, the symphony, and the theatre. His grandchildren were his other great passion in life. Prior to his illness, he attended many of their activities from sporting events, to theatrical performances, concerts, and art exhibits. Ken is fondly remembered from his generosity, warm smile, and gentle personality.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Jan; his three daughters: Beth Elaine Gatts (Mrs. Todd), Sue Ellen Dalbo (Mrs. Paul), Anne Mary Camp (Mrs. David), and his seven grandchildren Ryan and Megan Gatts; Adam, Alisa, and Jenna Dalbo; and Caleb and Hannah Camp.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the charity of your choice or to the Croasdaile Village Benevolent Fund, 2600 Croasdaile Farm Parkway, Durham, NC 22705.

Online condolences at

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