Kenneth Montelle Payne III

Ken Payne was a gentle, loving man with an easy smile and quick to laugh.

He was the most professional sales person ever. His customers became his friends and came back year after year to buy cars from him. He took a picture of every person in front their new vehicle. He also posted each picture in his office. Ken’s motto was “I love this business” and he truly did. Ken sent postcards to past customers with quips and interesting/funny sayings written on them. Ken got up every morning and put on one of his monogrammed shirts and with a smile on his face went to work, a career spanning 42 years.

Ken had a love affair with cars from his teenage years at Flintridge Prepatory High School and had a ‘63 Chevy Nova II right to the end. He loved car and air shows, as well as the Bonneville races. Ken was intensely interested in politics and current events. Ken was very patriotic and spent his 4 year military career in the Air Force, where he achieved the rank of Captain.

Ken and his Domestic Partner, Dale traveled often. Ken had 2 passions. One was his dedication to exercise and fitness. He had a daily routine of sit ups, push ups and walking or running. During college at Rollins he was on the water ski and rowing teams. He was a badminton champion during his military career and enjoyed tennis and cycling. Ken’s other passion was the love and devotion he felt for his family. He is survived by his Domestic Partner, Dale Van Mill, his daughter, Taylor, son Tell, daughter in law Inga and 5 siblings, David, Freeman, Carol, Diana and John. Rest In Peace Kenny, we love you.

Donations can be made in his honor to Serenity House Hospice in Santa Barbara.