Kenneth "Ken" Herrera died on Monday, December 5, in his beloved Castro District. He was born in Santa Fe, New Mexico and called Albuquerque his home, but he made San Francisco his home base for over 25 years �" where he lived, worked, and was known and loved by many. During a private memorial dinner held December 10, the outpouring of love for Kenny was immense, and his New Mexico family will treasure the memories shared. Kenny's "positiveness," his loving spirit, and support of others impacted so many people in some ways, altered the direction of people's lives as he served as a mentor to many young interns who worked with him at Yosh for Hair. He was considered a treasure to his many clients.
Kenny was a loving brother to his beloved sister Carmella Herrera and to his brothers Patrick Herrera, Peter Herrera, Phillip Herrera, and their families, which includes numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins in New Mexico. Two aunts, Chris Clark of Houston, Texas, and Rose Quintana of Albuquerque, New Mexico also survive him. In San Francisco, Kenneth shared a deep bond with his pride and joy, "step-sister" Carol De La Rosa; an endearing earthly bond with Amy "Lou" Czarnecki; and a loving bond beyond measure with Janet Apour, with whom he spent countless hours with her and her wonderful, loving family. Ken also shared a lifelong brotherly bond for more than 20 years with Leslie Justice, who took great care of Ken and his well-being. His godson, Julian Acchetto, who was a special source of joy in his life, also survives Ken. There were many people who held a special bond with Kenneth, including Joan Barrett of Boulder, Colorado; Tamra "Munchkin" Frei of Lansing, Michigan; Miguel Rodriguez, Richard Gerins, Eun, and Ken's neighbor, "Tex."
Kenneth will be most remembered for his unconditional love for family and friends, his positive outlook toward life, his appreciation for the finer things in life, photography, music, biographies, collectibles, but especially his love of animals. He dearly loved his Scarlett and Chantel. He was ever sensitive to orphaned pets, and to those in need. Kenneth was a loving soul, always ready to help a person in need. He was humble, compassionate, loving, and charitable. He had a strong faith, which carried him through life's challenges and sustained him while he fought his final battle. His family and friends will unimaginably miss him. We all feel blessed to have known him, laughed with him, and been hugged by him. We thank all the staff at Tunnell Nursing and Rehab Facility, Maitri, as well as Hospice by the Bay for their compassionate efforts and comforting kindness toward Kenneth.
Cards of condolences and sharing of memories are welcomed by Kenny's family and may be mailed to the Herrera Family at Kenneth's New Mexico home address at 1407 Solano Court, N.E., Albuquerque, NM 87110. Each will be treasured and acknowledged.