Kenneth L. Hemken, 96

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 Kenneth Lee Hemken, 96, of Hillsboro,  died Monday, January 13, 2025, at 6:55 a.m. at Montgomery Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Taylor Springs.

Funeral services will be held on Sunday, Jan. 19, beginning at 3 p.m. at Bass Patton Dean Funeral Home in Hillsboro. Visitation will be held from 2 p.m., until the time of service. Burial will take place at a later date. Pastor Ron Butler and Jeff Hemken will be officiating.

Mr. Hemken was born on July 6, 1928, in Sorento to the late William and Lillie (Kitchen) Hemken. He was a 1947 graduate of Hillsboro High School and has lived in the Hillsboro area his entire life. Mr. Hemken was a proud soldier of the United States Navy, serving from 1947 to 1949. On Oct. 26, 1947, he married Anna M. Redman in Hillsboro and they were happily married for 57 years, before she preceded him in death in March of 2005. He worked as a baker for his father-in-law at Hiltop Bakery and Jubelts. Mr. Hemken loved to bowl and anything sports related. He was a little league coach and umpire and took great pride in supporting the local high school sports.

   Mr. Hemken is survived by his children, Rhea Smith of Hillsboro, Sue Kurzejeski of Jerseyville and Becky (companion, Patrick Huber) Zuber of Hillsboro;   seven grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

He is preceded by his parents, William and Lillie; wife, Anna; son, Randy Hemken; grandchild, Michael Zuber; three brothers; three sisters; and sons-in-law, Alex Smith, Kenny Nowlan and Don Kurzejeski.

   Memorials are suggested to the Central Park Pool. Condolences may be left online at www.basspattondeanfh.com.