Kenneth E. Harkless

Kenneth E. “Cancun Kenny”, “Ken” Harkless, 77, of Altoona passed away at his residence surrounded by his family.

Kenneth was born in Philipsburg the son of the late Ralph and Genevieve (Sasala) Harkless. He married Donna M Horon on June 19, 1971, in Altoona.

He is survived by his wife: Donna, a daughter: Shalon (Timothy Jr) Hench, and a son Christopher (fiancée Lisa Glace) Harkless. Two grandchildren, Taylor Hench and Dylan Hench (girlfriend GG Grant). One brother Barry Harkless. Also, by his great-grand puppy Loki.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Dennis (Denny) Harkless.

Ken was a 1966 graduate of Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School and a 1971 graduate of Philipsburg State General Hospital School of Nursing.

Ken was a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist; during his career he worked at Altoona Regional Hospital, Nason, Tyrone, Miner’s Hospital in Spangler, Altoona Mercy Hospital (Bons Secour), Huntington and Hollidaysburg State Hospital. After his retirement he drove bus/van for the Altoona School District.

Ken enjoyed vacations, cars, and spending time with family, friends and co-workers. He was an avid Penn State and the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins fan.

Kenneth was a member of St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church. He was a former member of St. Therese of the Child Jesus Catholic Church.

Friends received Tuesday August 4, 2026, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm followed by a funeral service at 2:00 pm by Father Andriy Kelt at the Stanley J. Krish Funeral Home, Inc 1204 17th Street Altoona. A private interment at the convenience of the family at St. Mary Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery.

To honor Cancun Kenny's memory, the family requests that you wear your favorite tropical attire on Tuesday..

The family request instead of flowers please kindly donate to St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church Cemetery 2024 20th Street Altoona, Pa 16601 or American Cancer Society.