I was saddened to hear that Ken Stapel passed away yesterday in his apartment on his birthday.
Ken was one of the very first members here since January of 2001. He quickly became one of our staunchest supporters gaining a huge following here with his quick wit, humor and sometimes strong personality.
He quickly learned how the forum software worked and combined with his incredible knowledge of C4 Corvettes, quickly moved up to being one of the first Administrators here.
I first met Ken during the L81 Vette Registry event at the NCM in Bowling Green. He drove out with BlackDog and Rare81. When I saw him pull up, I was shocked to say the least. Pictures just don't do his Corvette justice, and when he first climbed out of it, I couldn't believe he drove all the way out from Huntington Beach in any semblance of comfort.
Ken not only had a larger than life persona, but he was a tall, strong, big-boned guy who you wouldn't think could fit in a C4 well. Somehow, he did it, and loved every minute behind the wheel.
I spent a good portion of that first night shooting the breeze with him and Rare81 in his hotel room. Even though I could barely see straight after the long day of partying and socializing with everyone, he was ready to keep going well into the night.
As many of you know, Ken suffered from several health problems, but regardless, Ken lived life to the fullest. He lived life hard and lived it fast and if you tried holding him back, he'd leave you in the dust without any hesitation.
Regardless of the circumstances surrounding his removal from the Administration here, I still considered him to be a friend and valuable member here. While on the subject of his removal from the Administration, now is definitely not the time to air dirty laundry, but let me just say that I've seen a lot of bull**** and general misinformation floating around the various forums sites about that situation.
The decision to ask him to step down from the Administration was not an easy one, a quick one, nor one that I took lightly. Those of you that know me and know me well, know damn well what I went through in making the final decision.
I will always remember Ken as the quick witted, sharp-tongued comedian who not only made members laugh with his posts, but educated many with not only his knowledge of Corvettes, but the knowledge he gained through many of his life experiences.
His support for the Corvette Action Center was unyielding and his zest for life, even through the rough times he had, was incessant.
Rest in peace BroKen and Godspeed.
-Rob
Edit: As of this posting, we don't have many details on Ken's passing, an obituary or notice of services. As soon as we can find anything out, I'll post it here.
Rest in Peace Ken!! Thank you for being my Friend!!!
4LT GS Roadster
