Obituary for Kenneth (Ken) Charles Haye

April 13, 1946 – March 5, 2026

With love and gratitude, the family of Kenneth (Ken) Charles Haye announces his passing on March 5, 2026, in Bishop, California.  Born on April 13, 1946, in Whittier, California, Laura and Lester Haye, he was the youngest of three children.

He graduated from Pioneer High School in 1964 and went on to earn both a BA in Psychology and a Master’s in Education from Whittier College.  His time there brought lasting friendships, plenty of basketball, and–most importantly–Penny, the love of his life.  They married in June 1968 and shared nearly 58 years focused on family, supported by a lifelong love and a shared enjoyment of traveling together.

Shortly after marrying, the couple moved to Bishop, California, where he had accepted a teaching position.  What began as a job quickly became a lifelong calling.  Over 32 years at Bishop Elementary School, he influenced generations of students with his calm encouragement, patient guidance, and deep belief in the worth of every child.  He wasn’t only a teacher – he made himself available beyond the classroom, providing guidance and support in countless ways.  During this long career, he and his family spent two cherished years in England as part of a teaching exchange program, traveling and camping throughout Europe building lasting friendships.

An athlete at heart, he played high school, college, and city basketball and later dedicated countless hours to coaching and refereeing throughout the Owen’s Valley.

He was known around Bishop for his daily bike rides to and from school, eventually logging over 25,000 miles.  He cherished the High Sierra, spending many joyful days camping, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors with his family.

Above all, he was a family man.  He poured love and guidance into his children – never by taking over, but by standing beside them, making sure they had confidence and tools to do things on their own – The family he loved so dearly includes his children – Justin Haye; Keri & Todd Oney; Micah & Kirsten Haye – along with his grandchildren Madison, Ethan, and Breanna Haye; Connor and Colton Oney; Shelby and Brandon Cummiskey; and Averly, Keegan, and Silas Haye.  His granddaughter Kylie Oneywho preceded him in death, remains deeply cherished.  His great-grandchildren Kye and Kade Oney, with Baby Boy Cummiskey expected in September 2026.

Above all, he was a man of strong faith, passionate about helping others and sharing the salvation he found through his Savior, Jesus Christ.  His compassion for people led him to establish the Kenco fund, a quiet but powerful expression of his belief in serving others.

He was known affectionately throughout the community as “Abraham Lincoln,” a persona he proudly embodied every Halloween and on Lincoln’s birthday during his teaching career.

Though his passing leaves a tremendous ache, his legacy lives on – in the lives he shaped, the kindness he modeled, and the faith he shared.

A celebration of Life will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Bishop, CA, on April 4, 2026, at 11:00 AM.  A luncheon will follow – a fitting tribute to a man who loved good food, good company, and fellowship.

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be to the Kenco Fund or to a Charity of your choice.

Contributions to Kenco may be mailed to:

First Presbyterian Church (Memo: Kenco Donation) 585 N. Main St. Bishop, CA 93514