Kenneth Pfannenstiel, beloved husband, dad, grandpa, cousin and friend, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2024, at the age of 76. Born on January 7, 1948, Kenny grew up and was a lifelong resident of Hays, Kansas. He was the son of Paul J. and Philippa Pfannenstiel.
As a child, Kenny enjoyed his time with his cousins. He learned to dance the polka, play the accordion, and eat his favorite family German dishes.
Kenny graduated from St. Joseph’s Military Academy, Class of 1966. He continued his education at Salina Vo-Tech and became a machinist in 1968. He was highly skilled in his trade, and over the years, he worked for Ralph’s Welding and Machine, Cross Manufacturing, S & W Supply Co., and Rans Inc. He retired as a custodial specialist from Fort Hays State University in 2011.
On June 19, 1971, Kenny married Diana Clews at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Hays, beginning a life together that lasted 53 years. They were soulmates. Together, they raised 2 children: Sara and Kevin. He was a loving father who worked hard to provide for his family.
Kenny loved spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed a good conversation, classic cars, cheering on the Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs, and listening to his favorite songs on the oldies channel. Most of all, he loved being a grandpa. He enjoyed celebrating birthday parties, hosting talent shows and playing endless games of checkers and Bingo.
Kenneth Pfannenstiel had a life filled with faith, love, and friendship. He is survived by his wife, Diana; his children Sara (Matthew) Mahoney and Kevin (Tanda) Pfannenstiel; and four grandchildren, Jaxson, Lexi, Maeve and Liam. Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Leroy and Susie Faye Clews and his sister-in-law Kimberly Clews. He was an honorary lifetime member of the Knights of Columbus.
Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Saturday, November 9, 2024 at St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church with Fr. Damian Richards officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:30 pm until 7:00 on Friday, November 8, 2024 at St. John’s Chapel at Via Christi Village and from 9:00 am until service time on Saturday at St. Nicholas of Myra Catholic Church. A vigil service and rosary will be at 6:30 pm on Friday at St. John’s Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Via Christi Village Long-term Care Activities Fund or to HaysMed Hospice.
Services entrusted to Hays Memorial Chapel Funeral Home and condolences and memories of Kenny may be shared with his family at www.haysmemorial.com