Kenneth Albert Strong, Jr. “Niigaanigaaniimiikaang” age 56 of Tower died Monday, October 13, 2025 in the Cook Hospital. He was born August 28, 1969 at the Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota; the son of Kenneth Sr. and Isabelle Burnside. Ken was a collector of knives, guns, guitars, jewelry, and tactical gear. He had a great appreciation for classic country and blues music. Ken was an old soul filled with kindness and humor. He loved to learn and teach others about the Anishinaabe Culture.

Ken is survived by siblings: Kristal Strong of Tower and Donovan (Kari) Strong of Duluth; nephews and nieces: Dylan (Becca) Strong, Ryker (Paige) Strong, Kaitlin (Matthew) Strong, Jake (Kate) Riihiluoma; Grandnieces and nephew; Aunts: Jan Martin and Wilma Andrews; Best Cousins: Bessie Medicine, Stacey Boshey, Sue Boshey, and Robert Moyer; extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents: Ruth Ann & Albert, Anthony Boney, Alice Burnside, Uncle Ed Strong, Sara Kochie, Gene and Hank Goodsky, Aunt Rose Hedlund, Ruby & John Boshey.

Ken’s wake will begin at 6:00 p.m. Thursday, October 16, 2025 at the Vermilion Wellness Center in Tower. The wake will continue until the 10:00 Service of Tribal Rites on Friday, October 17, 2025. Billy Blackwell will be the Spiritual Advisor with Vern Adams as his assistant. Burial will take place in the Bois Forte Tower Reservation Cemetery.

Family services provided by Bauman’s Vermilion, A Bauman Family Funeral Home in Tower. To share condolences online, please see: www.baumanfuneralhome.com.