Kenneth G. Hershberger
On Saturday October 3rd, 2020 we lost our beloved Ken Hershberger, of Sandy Oregon. A family memorial and celebration of Ken's life took place in Palm Springs during the month of October. Kenneth Glen Hershberger, the youngest of 10 children, was born December 22, 1935 in Glendo, Wyoming to Harold and Julia Hershberger. Ken enlisted in the Navy following his graduation from Santa Cruz High School, landing him in Washington state, where he met the love of his life, Bonnie Ray Samples. On October 31, 1960, Ken married Bonnie in Vancouver, Washington. Together they raised 4 children, Cary, Dan, Shelly and Mike. After returning from serving overseas in 1962, Ken was transferred to Southern California where he continued his career until retirement in 1974.
At that time, Ken became the 2nd youngest chief in the Navy, retiring with the highest listed rank of Master Chief Electrician. Ken was a long time VFW member, including acting as the office quartermaster. Following retiring from the navy, Ken, Bonnie, Shelly and Mike moved to Sandy, Oregon, where he spent his remaining years. Ken was a teacher at Benson high school, where he retired after 17 years. His passion for education is something which he instilled in both his students and family. In his free time, Ken enjoyed fishing, camping, hunting and gardening. He was a dedicated veteran, son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend. Ken is survived by his wife of 61 years, Bonnie Hershberger; his brother Gene Hershberger; his son Cary Hershberger (Rose Hershberger); his son Dan Hershberger; his
daughter Shelly Burks (Matt Burks); his son Mike Hershberger (Margaret Hershberger); his grandchildren; Autumn Clevenger, Heather Richardson, Riley Hershberger, Sarah Hershberger,
Carly Hershberger, Rusty Hershberger and Tommy Hershberger.
The family requests that any donations honoring Ken's memory be made to the Vietnam Veterans Association of Portland, Oregon.
Our Hero
When one thinks of a hero
Countless terms come to mind
Those who provide constant support, unconditional love
Are encouraging, compassionate, forgiving and kind
They have defended their country
And educated its youth
Encouraging all to be their best selves
Living a life of happiness and truth
But most importantly their family
For which they insurmountably care
Sacrificing any and everything
With love and dedication unable to compare
You may have called him Berger
Chief, Sparky or Ken
Or maybe it was Dad
Gramps or Brother Glen
Despite the different titles
Or ways we knew him as our own
It's undeniable he was the greatest
Hero this world has known
In loving memory of Kenneth G. Hershberger
