By: Ryan Thompson, Assistant AD for Communications
Ken Clemens, long-time women's basketball play-by-play broadcaster at Davenport University, passed away on Saturday, November 4 surrounded by his family following a battle with leukemia.
"All of us within Davenport University Athletics are deeply saddened to learn of Ken Clemens passing," said executive director of intercollegiate athletics, Paul Lowden. "Ken was the voice of the women's basketball program for many years. His long-time commitment to DU athletics is a powerful sign of his dedication and loyalty to our athletic department. Ken was not just an announcer, but a member of our Panther family. He was a tremendous person and supporter of DU athletics throughout the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with Clemens' family."
Ken began calling games for the women's basketball team in 2006 and saw the program reach many heights during the NAIA era. He was a constant on home and away games and dedicated hours upon hours to his craft. He also built lifelong relationships with the coaches and players along the way.
"Ken not only made an impact on the basketball part of his passion and job, but on every person's life he came in contact with," said Shannon (Callaghan) Rose who played for Davenport from 2003-07. "His attention to detail knowing every stat, hometown, pronunciation, family info, shout outs across the world, etc. on not only the current players and opponents, but also the alumni was something that can't be explained. Ken made everyone feel welcome, at home, and truly cared for everyone he encountered. Davenport women's basketball current players, alumni and families will forever hold a special place in our hearts for Ken. He was not just our "radio guy" but a true friend and special person to so many. With all the highs and lows that go into college athletics throughout each season, Ken always cared for each person with sincerity. Ken made Davenport a better place and I am so grateful to have had the chance to know him!"
Ken was married to his wife, Dorothy, for 58 years and the couple called Holland, Mich. home. His family also includes children Clarke and Denise Clemens, Chad and Rosalyn Clemens, Cameron and Casey Braybrook; grandchildren, Sophia and her husband Cody, Wesley, Joshua, Grant, and Katherine.
Ken was also an educator and coach at Flint Southwestern, Flint St. Agnes, and Swartz Creek. He was an assistant principal, history teacher, and varsity boys basketball coach at Grand Rapids Northview High School from 1977-97. Clemens also was a sports broadcaster for Michigan Sports Radio during his retirement.
"Ken was a blessing to our team and fans," said current women's basketball head coach
Shonda Sanders. "His broadcasts were always organized and personalized to players and the team overall. Ken would go above and beyond and I really appreciated that. When I first got the job he contacted me to introduce himself and made me feel welcomed. Ken will definitely be missed, but I know he will always be with us on the sidelines."
A celebration of life will be held at 11 AM on Friday, November 10 at Resurrection Life Church in Grandville, Mich. The visitation will be one hour prior to the celebration of life from 10 AM to 11 AM.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to
Tunnel to Towers Foundation,
Harbor Humane Society, or to
Hospice of Holland.
