Kenneth Ray Heiden Sr.

Kenneth Ray Heiden Sr., 79, of Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 11, 2026. He fought a courageous battle with cancer and drew his final breaths with his son, Kenneth Heiden, by his side. Our beloved Ken was a loving husband, father, grandfather and dear friend who will be deeply missed by all who loved and knew him.

Kenneth was born in Salt Lake City to LaVern “Otto” Heiden and Janice Parker Heiden Showalter. Raised in Salt Lake City, he grew up in a busy household sharing a 900-square-foot, three-bedroom, one-bathroom home with his family of seven. He went to East High School and attended Salt Lake Community College, which paved the way for his lifelong career at Kennecott Copper. While he lived in many different neighborhoods across the Salt Lake Valley, he ultimately made his home in West Valley, Utah.

Kenneth was well known for his outstanding bowling skills and his deep love of music. A natural competitor, he excelled at pool, ping pong, tennis, and golf. Above all, he dedicated his life to his family and his lifelong career at Kennecott Copper, where he worked for 30 years.

Kenneth is survived by his children, Kenneth Ray Heiden Jr. (Tara) and Michelle Dillon (Christopher); their mother and former wife, Charlene Crowell; stepchildren, Jason Poulos, Anastasia (Tasha) Poulos, and Jamon Poulos, siblings, Reed Heiden (Julie), Ron Heiden (Sharon), and Marvin LaVern Heiden (Anne); and his beloved grandchildren, Tehya and Nygelle Heiden.

Kenneth is preceded in death by his sibling, Elaine Arritola; his stepson, John Poulos; and his former wives, Loretta Lou Tsouras and Sandra Heiden.

Kenneth was happiest when he was surrounded by the people he loved. Whether around the campfire or playing his weekly game of pool with his son, a cherished tradition in his later years, he also loved his weekly phone calls with his daughter Michelle.

He will be remembered for his generous spirit, love of music, dedication to his family, and the memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. Kenneth will be reunited with his beloved parents as he is laid to rest beside them.

A celebration of Ken’s life will be held on October 23rd, 2026, at 1 PM, with a viewing starting at 12 PM, held at Goff Mortuary. The mortuary is located at 8090 S. State Street, Midvale, UT. 84047. Family and friends are invited to gather to honor his memory and celebrate the life of a man who meant so much to so many.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Canyons Hospice team for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Ken and his loved ones during this time. Their dedication and thoughtfulness brought comfort to Ken and his family, and we will always be grateful for the care they provided.