Kenneth Walter Hiler, 81, of Coloma, passed away on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024 with his troops at his side.
Cremation has taken place. A family celebration of Kenny’s life will be held at a later date at his home and land, whose upkeep was a source of great pride and enjoyment to him. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Kenny can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org. Arrangements entrusted to the Heritage Chapel, 8747 US 31, Berrien Springs, Michigan 49103, 269-471-2700.
Kenneth was born on Aug. 1, 1943 to LeRoy Henry Hiler and Genevieve Mae (Koerber) Hiler, the second of six children. Kenny graduated from Coloma High School in 1961 and from there enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country overseas in Germany for three years before being honorably discharged.
Upon returning home, Kenny took a job with Menasha Corporation in Coloma, where he worked for 37 years, leaving as number two in seniority. Kenneth met Linda Smith in 1965, and on March 19, 1966 they were married, embarking on a lifelong bond that will never be broken. Kenny was an avid history buff and the family historian (ask any of us about Andrew Slenker from the Civil War!) Kenny also enjoyed watching sports, especially following the Detroit Lions and Tigers. Family members have heard for years his reminiscing on the Lions’ last NFL championship, which was won in 1957 thanks to Tobin Rote. Above all, Kenny loved to be outside mowing the lawn, raking the leaves, and just enjoying the peace and quiet of his home in Bainbridge Township.
Kenny led a full life grounded in decency, kindness, generosity, and family loyalty. He was the embodiment of the sense of duty and work ethic. After each and every day, despite working eight plus hours in the factory, Kenny still found the time to sit and visit with his parents, making sure that things around their house were taken care of or just to say hello. He was also instrumental in getting his daughter Jeanne and daughter-in-law Sherry positions at Menasha that helped to launch their careers.
Kenneth is survived by his devoted and loving wife of 58 years, Linda (Smith) Hiler; children Todd (Sherry) Hiler of Lake Orion, MI and Jeanne Hearn (Andrew Larson) of Coloma. Also surviving are four grandchildren; Alec Hiler (Allie Pohler) of Manhattan, KS; Megan Hiler (Spencer Wilson) of Frisco, CO; Adam (Amber) Hearn of Coloma; and Kevin Hearn (Lacey Carpenter) of Coloma; plus, one great-grandchild Anthony Hearn of Coloma. Kenny is also survived by a special relative, Shirley Del Vecchio of St. Joe and his faithful lap dog Casey. Kenny leaves behind sisters Kay and Karen, brother Larry, as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews and relatives.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Vicki and Jeanne, and his best friend Pete Del Vecchio.
Kenneth was fond of telling all who would listen that he was proud of his family. Now it is our turn to say how proud we all are to be a part of the family whose foundation he built.
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