Kenneth Dean Hartley

Kenneth Dean Hartley, 93, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, in Meridian, Idaho, after a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Born June 10, 1932, in American Falls, Idaho, Kenneth was the son of Elmer and Leila Hartley. He grew up alongside his brothers Wayne and Eugene (both deceased) and his sister Janet May, spending his youth immersed in the simple pleasures of small-town life—playing sports, hunting, and fishing. These cherished pastimes would stay with him throughout his life, connecting him to Idaho’s wide-open spaces and the community he loved.

Kenneth attended Rockland High School in Rockland, Idaho. He built his career from the ground up as a self-employed building contractor, founding Hartley Construction. His work was a testament to his dedication and craftsmanship, leaving a lasting mark in the town he called home.

Duty called Kenneth to serve in the U.S. Army’s 7th Infantry during the Korean War. With quiet pride, he held the Korean Service Medal with Bronze Service Star and the National Defense Service Medal, honors reflecting his courage and commitment.

On August 24, 1955, Kenneth married Patricia Brown. Together they built a life rooted in love and lasting partnership, living in American Falls and later in Meridian, Idaho. Kenneth leaves behind his beloved wife Pat and their children: Stuart Hartley (Meridian), Brenda Durkee (Boise), and Steven Hartley (Meridian). His legacy extends to grandchildren Tiffany McCray, Greg Underwood, Angela Majalca, Christina Bowes, DJ Durkee, Courtney Swore, Scott Hartley, and Stevie DeFrance, and many great grandchildren.

Kenneth enjoyed watching sports and spending hours in his woodshop, creating with his hands and his heart. An avid golfer and an enthusiast of thoroughbred horse racing, he even became an owner of his own racehorses—a dream realized through steadfast effort and genuine passion.

Those closest to Kenneth remember him as a practical, hard-working man of few words whose actions spoke volumes. He loved his family deeply and taught by example, leaving indelible lessons of quiet strength and steadfast loyalty.

Kenneth is preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Leila Hartley, and his brothers Wayne and Eugene Hartley. He is survived by his devoted wife Pat, his children Stuart Hartley and his wife Kathy, Brenda Durkee, and Steven Hartley, his sister Janet May, and all of his grandchildren.

Kenneth Dean Hartley’s gentle spirit and unwavering integrity touched the lives of many. He will be fondly remembered and dearly missed.

The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to White Oak Hospice and to Heather from Angels Among Us for the love and care they provided in Ken’s final days.