Kent Gripenstraw has been a resident of Oakdale for his entire life, except 20 years spent in the U.S. Air Force. Kent's father moved from Santa Cruz to Oakdale in 1929 and met his mother, who was born and raised in Oakdale. After his Air Force retirement, Kent, Sunny, and their boys returned to Oakdale, building a home where Kent has lived for 42 years.

Kent attended grammar and high schools in Oakdale. At 19, his musical talent earned him a scholarship to the Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Two years later, at 21, he applied to and was accepted to the Air Force and married his beloved Sunny Sutton. “When I was young, all men under the age of 23 had to join the service unless they were married, attending college, or had medical issues.”

Kent's Air Force career was illustrious, including performances with Air Force bands for five U.S. Presidents. Notably, he played for President Kennedy twice the week before his assassination. His time in the service deepened his love for music, a passion he had pursued professionally since age 17, playing the piano in nightclubs, restaurants, and with numerous vocalists and show groups.

After retiring from the Air Force at 42, Kent returned to Oakdale and began a new chapter working at Hershey's Chocolate. He dedicated 20 years to the company before retiring at 62. Throughout these years, his commitment to music never waned, enriching the local cultural scene.

Kent’s family has been the cornerstone of his life. He and his wonderful, beautiful wife Sunny, who passed away six years ago after 56 years of marriage, raised three sons: Bart in Denver, Brad in Chico, and Kirk in Nashville. His family has grown to include one granddaughter, a Vanderbilt University graduate, and seven grandsons, four of whom are college graduates. His oldest grandson recently celebrated his wedding in Hawaii.

Now fully retired, Kent cherishes his home in Oakdale, spending time with his amazing 88-year-old brother, enjoying the company of lifelong friends and the love of his wonderful family.