CPL Kenneth W. Heiden
1927 – 2024
USAAF
WWII
Kenneth William Heiden was born in Barrington on August 22, 1927 to William and Josephine Schumacher Heiden.
During World War II, Heiden served his nation in the 16th Fighter Squadron, U.S. Army Air Force as a Medical Technician in the U.S. forces that occupied Japan following its surrender. He served from October, 1945, until his honorable discharge in January, 1947 as a Corporal.
Heiden returned to Barrington to pursue his passion for race cars. He built cars from scratch with his father, and he raced competitively throughout Illinois and Wisconsin for several years, taking the checkered flag many times.
On April 26, 1950, he married Eileen Martin in Cook County; they raised four children.
Heiden remained physically and mentally active all of his life, and daily walks were one of the highlights of his day and truly brought him happiness. He was a fixture in the Barrington community for 97 years, serving and volunteering for countless local and community efforts; his character, kindness, quiet confidence, big smile and bright hazel eyes were noted and appreciated by all.
Corporal Kenneth Heiden passed away peacefully on August 14, 2024, surrounded by family. He is buried with his wife at Barrington’s Evergreen Cemetery.
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Remember. Honor. Teach.
Courtesy of Signal Hill Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.