HEHN, Kenneth Ralph
July 5, 1940 — December 5, 2020
It is with great sadness that the family of Kenneth “Papa” Ralph Hehn announce his passing on December 5, 2020, at the age of 80. Ken was born on July 5, 1940 in Earl Grey, Saskatchewan, but soon moved to Kelowna, BC as a child and resided there until his death.
He skated his way into his wife Chris’ heart at the age of 21, and they soon got married on May 20, 1961. They were inseparable for the next 59 years. Over those years they had 2 children: Brent (Mehrnaz) and Michelle (Cris), and 4 grandchildren: Kyle (Jenn), Haley (Conner), Leon, and Lena.
He worked as a printer at the Daily Courier newspaper for his whole career of 48 years, rarely missing a day’s work. He had boundless energy and after work he would build houses, play ball, and work in orchards to earn some extra money. He appreciated a hard day’s work and would be willing to help with any job, big or small.
He was predeceased by his mother and father, Olga and Joe, and is survived by his sisters Arlene (Nick Papov) and Donna (Bob Bartz) as well as several nieces and nephews. Ken was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Always smiling and cheerful, he was blessed with a gentle disposition. He loved his family with all his heart and spent most of his time with his children and grandchildren. Reliable and nonjudgmental, he was guided by principles and respect.
He loved to camp and fish, and his family spent many weekends at mountain lakes around the Okanagan catching fish and sitting around campfires. He loved to golf and played all over BC. But above all, he loved sitting and enjoying a beer with his friends and family. In his younger years, he was a great athlete and was an excellent pitcher and hockey player who continued playing into his 60s. He enjoyed teaching his children and grandchildren to skate, play baseball, fish, and golf.
After retirement, he and his wife Chris would drive to Arizona with their R.V. for the winter to relax and golf, they met wonderful people on their travels. Ken was very easy to like, made friends easily, and loved his retirement travels. Ken was an optimist and always looked on the bright side. His smile was infectious and put people at ease. Due to a devastating stroke, Ken was bound to a wheelchair for the last 4 years of his life. He never complained but was saddened that he couldn’t travel any more. He worked hard at rehab and was always hopeful that he could get strong enough to go home. Most of all, we will miss his glowing smile and his happy chuckle. Rest in peace Papa.
A celebration of his life will take place at a later date. Please celebrate his life by raising your glass in a toast to him.
The family would like to thank all the staff at Cottonwoods for their loving care, and Dr. Jennifer Parsons for all her kindness.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de HEHN Kenneth Ralph July 5 1940 — December 5 2020..
Décès pour la Ville: Kelowna, Province: Colombie britanique