Ken Haenel lived in Austin his entire life. He grew up in a loving family with two sisters, in Westlake Hills. He didn’t have a mean bone in his body. Ken was kind, generous, funny, intelligent, charming, and a meticulous planner. He was always there for others and put everyone ahead of himself. He loved inventing things, always trying to make his own inventions better. He had a twinkle in his eyes when looking at his wife, Cindy. He had a child-like curiosity and was excited about learning new things.
Ken loved music, especially jazz, and played the bass trombone. He loved fishing and being outside whenever possible. He wanted to leave this world better than he found it – and he succeeded!
Ken is survived by his loving wife Cindy Haenel, and by his sisters Tana Walsh and Ruth Beddoe. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Olga Haenel, and by his dog Red.
It was Ken’s request that remembrances of cut flowers not be sent. Instead, please consider donating to Austin Empty Bowl Project, Ocean Conservancy, RIP Medical Debt, The Southern Poverty Law Center – or another charity of your choice.
A memorial service will be held on July 22, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at Weed Corley Fish Funeral Home with a reception to follow. After the catered reception, there will be a committal service held at Austin Memorial Park.
