By: Terresa Monroe
November 10th, 2008
In memory of Dr. Kenneth D. Gartrell...
Two weeks ago, on October 24th, 2008, Dr. Kenneth D. Gartrell passed away from Multiple Myeloma cancer. Ken was my client, friend and mentor for six years. He was not just a client - he was family... A large, gaping hole has been left in all our lives and Ken will be missed sorely by his family, friends, associates and colleagues. No one more so than his best friend, Mark Sarro, who is a gifted forensic economist in his own right.
Ken is survived by four wonderful children who are now grown and by his loving and devoted wife. He passed with his wife by his side and his family close by. I believe Ken went as he wanted to - quickly and peacefully in his sleep.
Ken was an extraordinary man. He was a forensic economist and a CPA at the top of his field, as well as a renowned expert witness on financial matters. He was admired and sought after for his intellect and eloquence. Ken was respected for his depth of knowledge and his passion for his work.
Beyond his work, Ken was an adventurer and an unmatched history buff. Whether racing cars on a Formula 1 racing track or riding his BMW motorcycle through the French Alps, Ken was always on the go. He thrived on adventure... He adored France and Spain. Ken traced Napoleon's footsteps through Europe... He fished for trout in Montana and hunted duck from a blind in the French countryside. Ken trained and loved horses and traveled to Vermont and Canada frequently. He had the heart of a warrior and a passion for living that very few ever have. Life was never boring with Ken - it was fast and intense and glorious.
I handled many of the details and business related aspects of Ken's life and enjoyed every second of it. It is very hard for me to accept he is gone. Wherever you are Ken, I want you to know you added depth to my life and you gave as much as you took. I learned more from you than any other client I ever had. Rest in peace my friend...