Saturday, November 14, 2026
Ken Bardon passed away on September 21, just a week after his 82nd birthday. He had spent his early years in New York, on Long Island, but had been a resident of Marco Island for the past 25 years. Ken was a businessman, avid sailor, private aviation pilot, skier and accomplished musician. He received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army Reserves.
Ken’s career was spent as an entrepreneur in the radio frequency microwave electronics industry, having owned several businesses throughout the years.
When he wasn’t commuting between his home in Marco Island and his business in New York, he was active in the community. He served several tours as Commodore of the Sailing Association of Marco Island, as well as volunteering in the Civil Air Patrol. He participated in the CAP’s coastal patrol missions. On many occasions, if you were at the Veterans Day Services at Veteran’s Park, you would have witnessed Ken doing the traditional flyover.
It was in his early years on Long Island, that Ken developed his life-long passion for sailing. When he sold his business in New York, he came down to Marco full-time. His first act was not to break out a bottle of Champagne to celebrate his retirement; rather, he went on the internet to order global cruising guides. It was his life’s dream to sail around the world. He spent several years planning the trip and finally accomplished that dream from 2013-2015, sailing in his Island Packet sailboat which he had bought and equipped for the adventure. During the trip, he was joined by 57 friends who met him at various points around the world. His adventures were documented in a blog, which had many followers.
In addition to being drawn to the sea, he was also drawn to the skies. As most private pilots, he started by getting a single-engine pilot’s license but as the years passed, he added certifications in twin engines and seaplanes. His flying passion culminated in his ownership of a Cessna 182 RG, which he used for business and pleasure.
His health declined steadily over the past few years and he passed away peacefully in his sleep. There’s no doubt that he is cracking off-color jokes, making toasts, and finding the single malt scotch supply on the other side.
A memorial service will be held in Bethesda, Maryland. His ashes will be scattered in the Gulf, according to his wishes.
October 10, 2024 Coastal Breeze News
