February 17, 2021 – Hartford, WI – Kenneth H. Hebert “Ken,” 89, of Hartford passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at Cedar Lake Health and Rehabilitation Center of West Bend.
Ken was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Henry and Mildred Hebert. He attended Boys Technology Trade School and went on to serve his country honorably in the Korean War with the U.S. Army. He initially pursued a vocation in carpentry but unexpectedly found himself in the hairdressing business, a career he loved that connected him with people of all ages and walks of life. The clients of his salons became close friends and, in some cases, surrogate family members.
Although it became a hobby rather than a career, he never lost his passion for carpentry and leaves behind many beautiful woodworking creations his family will treasure forever. He also enjoyed photography, reading, family trips, and taking long walks, particularly at Pike Lake.
At the core of his life, however, was his family. He was a loving and supportive father to his beloved three daughters, a devoted grandfather and great-grandfather, and an enduring dear friend to his former wife and mother of his children. He became interested in whatever his kids and grandkids were interested in and was an avid spectator of their activities. He taught them to love what they do and do what they love. He also fostered the importance of staying connected and valuing time with extended family.
It is impossible to fully express everything he meant to his loved ones. He was honest, caring, selfless and had a huge heart. He was known for having a great sense of humor and a deep laugh that was unforgettable. He was also the bravest person his family has ever known. He faced many serious health scares over the past forty years and survived through courage and determination, knowing how much he was loved and needed. His passing is something his adoring family has dreaded for so long, yet at the same time we are so grateful for all the time we had together.
Ken is survived by his cherished three daughters, Michele (Mark) Hebert-Clark, Laura (Tim Vanderhoof) Hebert and Christine (fiancé Henry Wurzburg) Hebert, his devoted former wife Jan Hebert, his precious grandchildren Nicholas Gutbrod, Jacob Merget, Emily Merget, Maggie Hebert Griese, and Aden Hebert-Vanderhoof, and his newest pride, great-grandchild Wesley. He is further survived by his in-laws Judy and Allan Bequest, Gary and Marilyn Kulas, and Patti and Robin Moore, and nieces Kim Bequest, Tiffany Koehler, Lisa (Tom) Francis, Kelly Kulas, and Jill (Don) Rogers and nephews Neil Kulas, Tim Kulas, and Brad Moore, along with numerous other loved relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, deceased baby boy, mother-in-law Ruth Striepling, and dearly loved sister Jan Kulas.
Ken’s family expresses their appreciation to his fond caregivers and the staff of Cedar Community for their efforts to bring him comfort and lift his spirits, especially during this past year when his family couldn’t be with him in person.
A visitation will take place on Saturday, February 20, 2021 at St. Kilian Catholic Church, 264 W. State St., Hartford from 9 a.m. until time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Military honors to follow. Private interment in Resurrection Cemetery, Mequon.
Arrangements by Shimon Funeral Home, 824 Union St., Hartford, 262-673-9500.