Kenneth Michael Heideman, 66, of Corning, died on Saturday, April 27, 2019 at Shawnee Mission Medical Center in Overland Park, KS of an extended illness.

Ken was born September 13, 1952, the oldest of eleven children to Alice and the late Gerald Heideman.

He spent his childhood on the family farm working beside his beloved father and brothers. After graduating from Centralia High School in 1970, he moved to Topeka working construction. In 1972, he married Cindy Thoman, and to this union was born his daughter, Jennifer Jo. They later divorced. That same year, Ken received notification to report to active duty in the US Army. Ken spent the next three years in Germany working on post in the commissary, while training as a radio operator. He separated from service in November 1975 but continued in active reserve until he was honorably discharged on October 30th, 1978.

Upon his return from service, Ken began working for the Watertower Paint & Repair Company. In 1979, he suffered a near fatal fall inside of a tower leaving him on permanent disability. Ken’s work ethic and his determination were his best assets. Although disabled, he spent the remainder of his life volunteering for just about anything he could find to keep busy.

On October 17th, 1987, he married Mary Hiltibrand in Topeka. They had a son, Mitchell Evan in 1991. In 1996 they moved back to Corning where he found his livelihood. He spent the next 10+ years as President of the Corning Ball Association and coached his son’s baseball teams.

Ken loved helping anyone around the farm spending most of his time with his brother, Mark, and their uncle, Ben. He also enjoyed fishing, playing cards, and socializing with his many, many friends and family. During the long winters, Ken kept busy in the kitchen and was well know for his many specialty dishes.

Ken is survived by his wife Mary and his son Mitchell of the home, and his daughter Jennifer (Michael) of Chandler, AZ. Also surviving is his mother Alice Heideman of Seneca and siblings; Ron (Teresa) Heideman of Overland Park, Keith (Lana) Heideman of Wamego, Gary (Phyllis) Heideman of Corning, Carol (Tim) Sack of Seneca, Deb (Keith) Hermesch of Seneca, Marcia (Bob) Johnson of Maple Hill, Craig (Deb) Heideman of Topeka, Chris Heideman of Wichita, and Dennis (Janet) Heideman of Baileyville. Other survivors are his three granddaughters; Jenna, Ryleigh, and MaKenna.

Rosaries are at 2:00pm and 7:00pm on Wednesday, May 1, 2019 at the Lauer Funeral home in Seneca. Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Corning on Thursday, May 2, 2019 at 10:30am. Burial will be in the St. Patrick’s Cemetery.

Memorials will be designated to the Corning Museum, the Corning Ball Association, and the American Legion Post 37.

Lauer Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements. To express your sympathy and for more information visit www.lauerfuneralhome.com .