Kenneth “Ken” Duane Heimbaugh died in February 2024 from an unlikely camping accident in Santa Barbara.

Ken was born on Aug. 21, 1952 in Akron, Ohio. He was a student at Akron Public Schools through junior high, then attended the Staunton Military Academy (SMA) in Staunton, Virginia, graduating in 1970.

At SMA, Ken made the Honor Society; played trumpet in the band; and was a member of the varsity track, swimming and cross-country teams, as well as the junior varsity football team.

After high school, Ken gave college a try at the University of Akron, but formal schooling did not seem to suit him, so he headed west for big adventures.

He became an avid mountain climber in Wyoming’s Rocky Mountains and learned how to be a survivalist. He later set out for California, where he could often be found surfing in the Pacific Ocean.

Throughout his life, Ken had a knack for making mischief; for instance, he once climbed up the top rail of the’Golden Gate Bridge (and received a citation).

Although he lived in various parts of California, Ken settled in Santa Barbara, where he even ran for mayor in 2001.

Over the years, Ken worked various construction jobs, and was a prolific freelance writer.

Ken suffered from a serious illness for most of his adult life, but he led life to the fullest as a skilled outdoorsman and had many varied and unique experiences.

He is preceded in death by his mother Audrea Jean (Yoe) (Heimbaugh) Woodall; father Frank Ivan Heimbaugh; stepfather William Woodall; and stepmother Marilyn Heimbaugh.

He is survived by his brother Charles “Chuck” Heimbaugh of Akron; stepbrothers and stepsisters; and niece and nephews.

May he now rest in peace.