Kenneth James Hector was born May 21,1946 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to Jacob Frank Hector and Thelma Florence (Hayes) Hector. Ken was the oldest of 3 kids, followed by sister Susan and brother Bob. After a recent recurrence of cancer, he fought hard but lost the battle. He is survived by his wife Darby of 48 years, his 4 children: sons Michael, Josh and John and daughter Sarah; granddaughters Kailey Espinosa (Xavi), Riley and Samantha; great grandchild Leo; 3 nieces/nephews.

His family moved to Southern California when Ken was 7. He attended St. Monica Catholic Elementary and St. Monica Catholic High School, graduating in 1964. He attended several junior colleges and finished his college career at University of Portland, graduating in 1971.

Ken's career was primarily focused on Workers Compensation - Risk Management as well as working in Governmental Affairs at Silverton Hospital.

Ken had a long history of public service. He was a City Councilor for many years; he served as Mayor of Silverton for 16 years; he founded and elevated The Oregon Garden; served on many boards including the WESD Board & has been a trustee on the Board of Education at Chemeketa Community College for over 12 years.

Ken belonged to Rotary, Silverton Chamber of Commerce & the Silverton Elks. He enjoyed golf, traveling with Darby, a good glass of wine & a fine cigar. He loved music, having special memories at many Mayor's Ball fundraisers, the Sun Valley Jazz Festival…with the High Street Band. He also enjoyed cheering on the Silverton Foxes and The OSU Beavers.

He was recognized with numerous awards over the years. Ken was honored as Silverton's First Citizen in 2003. He received a Special Service Award from the Oregon Association of Nurseries and was honored in 2024 with the Judy Schmidt Lifetime Achievement Award for his extraordinary and impactful

public service in Silverton. Most recently, in 2025 he received the National Trustee of the Year Award from the Association of Community College Trustees.

Most important, Ken was always ready to welcome newcomers and never hesitated to help out wherever he could. He was a wonderful man who cared deeply for family, friends and community.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sheltering Silverton.

A celebration of Ken's life will be held Friday, August 21, at the Oregon Garden Pavillion at 3:00pm.