Kenneth A. Herder
February 26, 1930 – November 22, 2021
In accordance with his wishes, cremation will take place and no services are scheduled. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Rose Arbor Hospice Residence.
Obituary
HERDER, Kenneth A.
Kalamazoo
Age 91, passed away on Monday, November 22, 2021. Ken was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan on February 26, 1930, the son of the late Harry D. and Cornelia (Vander Bos) Herder. He was a 1948 graduate of State High. Ken was employed by Burroughs Corporation and Herder Tool for many years. He enjoyed bowling and bowled a 300 game at age 76. Ken also loved lake life and fishing. He was an avid H O Model Train collector. Ken had a great sense of humor. On January 12, 1951, he married the former Mae H. Smith, who survives. Ken is also survived by his children, Kevin (Cyndi) Herder, Tamara (Brian) Reynolds, Valerie (Andrew) Jackson and Scott (Becky) Herder; son in-law, Tyrone Solmos; nine grandchildren; several step-grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; sisters, Mary VanDyke, Janet (Robert) Koets, Sandi (Phil) Kline and Sharon (Carl) Stafford and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Ken was preceded in death by his daughter, Ellen Solmos. In accordance with his wishes, cremation will take place and no services are scheduled. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Rose Arbor Hospice Residence.
My dad. I miss him. He was the best dad. Always there for us kids, and mom. Loved her everyday and deeply. He always saw the good and had a great sense of humor. Who else would answer “with my fingers” when asked how he feels, or “with a bowling ball” when asked how he bowled. I love you, Dad. I know you’re at peace, in no pain, and up and moving! I’ll see you again some day.
To my grandpa, I don’t even know where to begin I can’t even believe your gone we have so many great memories together. you are an amazing grandpa I couldn’t of asked for anyone else. I love you so very much as tears roll down my cheeks I know your not suffering anymore an you are with mom. I miss you so much already you will always be in my heart. Till I see you again.
Ken it has been a joy knowing you. I sorry the last few years it was hard and we didn’t see each other much I thought of you often even calling Mae once in awhile asking how the old guy was doing. For a long time I could look over late at night and see the light on in the computer room. We had a couple of good years watching the Grandkids bowl. Celebrate your home coming with the Lord with a new body an no more pain. Mae can step back and relax even though she will miss you greatly. I going to miss you but we shall meet again. Thanks for the memories.
I am so sorry to hear of Ken’s passing, he was a dear friend of my parents and our family. I remember Saturday night cards at my parents, they always had popcorn and usually had some kind of pie for later in the evening. Ken was alway a happy man, smiling all the time and always had time for us kids. You were Blessed to have to the age of 91, my prayers with May and your family and our hearts are with you.
Ken was family to the Carl kids. So many great 4th of July memories. He always had a kiss and a hug for me. Condolences to the family.
He was the love of my life for more than 70 years. A great husband, father, & provider. We have never been apart & life now sure will be lonely but I am so happy he is no longer struggling to breath. He never complained or said “why me”, He loved the Lord & has served many ways. Deacon, Elder, Janitor, & many more at Doster Reformed Church.
Where to begin! I (Ruth) mostly remember Ken and Mae at coffee at Meijers At first there were several Aunt, Uncles, cousins at coffee. Then it began to dwindle down as our loved ones passed on to glory. We kept going and met other people who became friends too. Bob and Beth Mitchell, Pat and Kay Thomas. We enjoyed their fellowship with us. After Covid hit there was no more coffee. We missed our time together. Every time I would say goodbye to Ken, I got a hug and a kiss on the cheek. He was so caring and I loved those hugs and kisses. His train set was something else. John gave it to him and what a transformation took place in Ken’s hands. He loved going into the garage and spent a lot of time adding to the set. It was something to behold. He had macular degeneration in his eyes and could only see out of one of them. He got shots in one eye and did not complain about it. He knew I have it too but not as bad yet. He was not a complainer at all. He loved his wife and children, grandkids, great-grandchildren. Ken was a gentle soul and spoke kindly of people. He and Mae were very comfortable in their home and it is a lovely place. I know Mae will greatly miss her dear husband so much. She took such care of him in their home and did everything for him when he needed help. Our dear Ken will be greatly missed but he is in Heaven with Jesus and can SEE and walk well and no oxygen anymore. We will see you again Ken where is no more crying, and walk the street of gold with Jesus. We love you Mae and will continue to pray for you.
Ken was my favorite cousin. He would always have a smile and give the best, warmest hugs when he saw you. I remember his fabulous train set up even when I was very young and still the amazing one he had in his garage. Our Friday night domino games with my mom and dad (Andy and Betty Smith) were so much fun. It was so special when Ken won a game since it didn’t happen very often. He was a great sport and always gave us a laugh. Ken would always lend a helping hand whenever he was needed. He was the most loving, sweetest man I knew. May the peace and comfort that God can give be with you, Mae and all your kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. Ken will be missed and never forgotten. God bless you all.
Dear Brother, I miss you already. You are the best brother a sister could have. When I think of our trip to the Mackinac Bridge and to Mackinac Island, I can\’t help but smile. We had a great time. I know you have been reunited with Ellen and our parents, and that makes me happy. I love you and miss you, and I will see you later. Your loving sister Sandi and Phil