We announce, with deep sadness, the passing of Ken Verkler on Dec. 22, 2024. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, business owner, community member, and friend, he lived a life marked by hard work, integrity, and dedication to those around him.
Born on Feb. 3, 1948, Ken built his life with a strong sense of community, responsibility, purpose, and a good amount of fun.
He lived much of his young life enjoying the spoils of Southern California during the summers and attending high school in Stanford, Connecticut, until he graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering from Bradley University.
On one of his spring breaks, he came to Los Angeles to visit a friend and met the love of his life. Just after a few months of courting, he proposed to JoAnn Hanly. They were married on Aug. 17, 1969.
After ken graduated, they moved back to JoAnn’s hometown, Solvang, California. After a short time at Nielsen’s Market, he started to work for his father-in-law, Bill Hanly, at Valley Hardware in Solvang.
As a husband to JoAnn Verkler for 55 years, he built a thriving multigenerational business with his two children Teri and Ben.
As the owner of Valley Hardware in Solvang, Ken created a community center where people came from all over the valley for supplies for their homes.
His work provided not only for his family but also created opportunities and stability for many others. His business was and is a cornerstone of the community and a reflection of his determination and high standards.
Ken was also an active and respected member of the community. He coached Little League when his son was young; he was a charter member of the Rotary of Solvang, and a charter board member of Valley Oaks Bank, which was later purchased by Montecito Bank and Trust, where Ken continued to serve as a board member.
He also served on the Solvang City Council as both a council member and mayor.
He was an avid golfer and a proud member of The Putter Boys and the Alisal Golf Club. His contributions, both personal and professional, were widely appreciated and will not be forgotten.
Ken is survived by his wife JoAnn; children Ben Verkler and Teri Waterhouse; grandchildren Maddie, Soledad, Ethan, Ella and Noah; and an extended network of family, friends and colleagues.
His absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers we would appreciate donations to the Ken Verkler Scholarship Fund through Rotary of Solvang. Please make checks payable to the Solvang Rotary Foundation. Include in the memo line, Ken Verkler Memorial Scholarship and mail to Solvang Rotary Foundation, P.O. Box 636, Solvang, CA 93464.