Kenneth Dean Plantz, 90, of La Porte, IN, passed away on Monday, November 9, 2026, at The Elms at Michigan City.

Kenneth was born on December 1, 1935, in Fulton Co., IN, to Fred and Dessie (Young) Plantz.

On November 25, 1961, in Notre Dame, IN, he married Elizabeth (Betty) Hoehn who survives. Also surviving are his 4 children, Mike (Tina) Plantz of Menomonee Falls, WI, Dave Plantz of Coon Valley, WI, Jane (Bill) Nelson of La Porte, and Tom (Kathy) Plantz of St. Joseph, MI; 9 grandchildren, Katelin Plantz, Christopher Plantz, Danielle Henne, Lauren Plantz, Samantha Plantz, Erik Nelson, Adam Nelson, Conner Plantz, and Becca Plantz; great-grandchild, Sawyer Plantz; daughter-in-law, Sheri Plantz; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Eldonna (Spike) Inks, Milicent (Robert) Lindborg, Janice (Buss) Carter, and Patsy (Robert) Entzian; and brothers, Donald Plantz and Robert (Alice) Plantz.

Raised on a farm in Fulton County, Kenneth graduated from Aubbeenaubbee Township High School before continuing his education at Butler University, where he was a proud student-athlete. He devoted 40 years to education, spending the majority of his career at La Porte High School as a biology teacher, coach, and assistant athletic director. Beyond the classroom and athletic fields, he found enjoyment in golf and gardening.

Ken was a man of few words, but his impact reached far beyond what words could express. Through his dedication to education, his influence as a coach and mentor, and the quiet example he set, he touched the lives of countless students, athletes, colleagues, and friends. His legacy lives on in the many lives he helped shape.

Cremation has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, La Porte. A private family service will take place at a later date.

Condolences may be shared online at www.cutlercares.com.