Service Information
Kenneth “Kenny” Hardel, age 74, of Glencoe, Minnesota, passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Prairie Senior Cottages in Hutchinson, Minnesota.
Memorial Service will be held Friday, May 29, 2026, 3:00 P.M., at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Glencoe.
Gathering of Family & Friends will be held Friday, May 29, 2026, from 1:00-3:00 P.M., two hours prior to the service, ALL at the church.
Obituary
Kenneth “Kenny” Harold Hardel was born on September 23, 1951, in Glencoe, Minnesota. He was the son of Harold and Elenora (Koester) Hardel. Kenny was baptized as an infant on October 7, 1951, by Reverend Plocher, and later confirmed in his faith as a youth on May 30, 1965, by Reverend Kuske, both at St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Helen Township, McLeod County, Minnesota. He received his education in Glencoe and was a graduate of the Glencoe High School class of 1969.
On July 6, 1985, Kenny was united in marriage to Donna Klitzke by Reverend Harold Pranschke at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Glencoe, Minnesota. After their marriage, the couple resided in Glencoe. Kenny and Donna were blessed with three sons, Jessie, Anthony, and Jeremy.
Kenny was employed at Fremont Industries in Shakopee, Minnesota, as a chemical specialist for 46 years and retired on his 65th birthday in 2016. Kenny was a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Glencoe, Minnesota, where he sang in the choir.
Ken enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially fishing and hunting when he was younger. He loved listening to live bands, singing karaoke, and dancing whenever he had the chance. He cherished time with his children and grandchildren, enjoyed gardening and bird watching, and was often heard whistling to entice the birds to sing. Ken also loved socializing with friends and spending time with his “Happy Hour Clan,” who affectionately nicknamed him “Mr. America” and “Mr. H.”
When he needed assistance with his care, Kenny became a resident of Prairie Senior Cottages in Hutchinson and passed away there on Friday, May 8, 2026, at the age of 74 years. Blessed be his memory.
Kenny is survived by his:
Wife, Donna Hardel of Glencoe, MN;
3 Sons, Jessie Hardel, and his wife, Melissa of Glencoe, MN, Anthony “Tony” Hardel and his wife, Abbie of Minot, ND, and Jeremy Hardel and his wife, Becky of Glencoe, MN;
Grandchildren, Hunter Hardel (14), Avery Hardel (10), Nora Hardel (10), Arlo Hardel (9), Abbott Hardel (6), and Gracie Hardel (11);
Sister, Joyce Mathews, and her husband, Bob, of Glencoe, MN;
Brother, Keith Hardel of Glencoe, MN;
Brothers-in-law, David Klitzke of Boise, ID, Michael Klitzke of Kauai, HI, and Frederick Klitzke of Glencoe, MN;
Nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Kenny was preceded in death by his father and mother, Harold and Elenora Hardel.
Robin Klopp says
Sorry to hear of Kenny’s passing! Thoughts and prayers for family and friends!
Jan Lockwood says
I am so to hear of Kenny’s passing. He was always a kind and caring man.
Blesst be his memory!
Jan Schlauderaff Lockwood
David Klitzke says
Kenny was a great friend, husband, father, and grandfather. His kindness and jolly self will be truly missed.
Sharon (Wolter) Rusley says
Donna and families: So sorry to hear of Kenny’s passing. May the memories you made and the memories you shared help you through this most difficult time.
Bob Novak says
Sorry to hear of Kenny’s passing. We will have your family in our prayers.
Bob Novak
Shari Templin says
Donna and family, I’m so sorry for your loss!! Kenny was such a great guy. Please know you all are in my thoughts and prayers!!
Joel Herrmann says
Donna and family I was sorry to hear of Kenny leaving this world for the next. Kenny and I shared numerous classes in high school. He kept his humorous way always making class interesting. I was blessed to know him, you are in my prayers.
Deb Frederickdon says
Donna,
I am so sorry to hear of Kenny’s passing…
I remember him well from our shared childhood neighborhood. We lived kitty corner from each other. And his mom was our Avon lady.
I have lots of lovely memories…
I send love to you and your beloved family,
Deb Frederickson
Julie Prochaska says
I am so very sorry to hear of Kenny’s passing. My heart is so very sad hearing this news. If only I could count the many country two-step dances we shared over the years. I always said Kenny Hardel was the one who taught me how to two-step at the area firemen’s dances. I will forever smile thinking of those memories.
I’ll never forget all the laughter and fun we had at the (Ma and Dad’s) farm when “the guys” would come out. Those were such special times filled with so many laughs. Kenny was a big part of so many wonderful memories that I will always hold close to my heart. Sending love, prayers, and comfort to all who loved him.
Michael "Maynard" Hardel says
I am so sorry and saddened with the loss of cousin Kenny. I had lived with him and his folks & family for a bit when our Dad, Maynard, passed away in 1964. I recall some of his jovial laughter that made him such a great guy. I am very happy that he has moved on in this life to a better and final resting place with Harold and Elenora.
Brad gruss says
Kenny was a good guy with a quick wit and sense of humor. Blessings to the family in his memory!