Kenneth Leland Gifford

Kenneth Leland Gifford, 88, of Rochester, passed away Sunday, December 20, 2015 at Rochester Methodist Hospital. Kenneth was born October 29, 1927 in Dodge Center, MN to Leo and Francis Gifford. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1945 and entered the U.S. Navy after graduation. Kenneth was discharged from the military on his 21st birthday. He worked for Hargesheimer Restaurant in Rochester before and after the Navy. Kenneth also worked for Cranston Typewriter Company in Rochester before going to work for Clarey Adding Machine Company in Columbus, Ohio which was bought out by Remington Rand. He was stationed in Pittsburgh, PA and New York City. Kenneth returned to Rochester in January 1963 and began to work at the Mayo Clinic. Kenneth finally retired from the Mayo Clinic in 1989. Kenneth married Audrey Mastio in New Orleans, LA in 1947 and they later divorced. Together, Kenneth and Audrey had three sons. In 1968, Kenneth married Diane West. Kenneth loved fishing, playing golf and going to the casino. He was a member of the American Legion, VFW, Eagles and the Masonic Temple in Rochester. Kenneth is survived by his wife, Diane of Rochester; sons, Kenneth (Tammy), Charles (Peggy), Steve (Miriam) all of the New Orleans area; 5 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren, and sister, Judy (George) Brudwick of Rochester. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service will be held 11:00AM Saturday, December 26, 2015 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW., Rochester. Visitation will be from 10:00AM until the time of the service. Memorial contributions may be made to Mayo Clinic Hospice. To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com