Kenneth Craig Hart

Ken was a devoted husband, loving father, caring brother, uncle, and loyal friend whose kindness and compassion touched many lives. He will be remembered for his loving heart, caring nature, and the deep love he had for his family, friends, animals, and the outdoors.

Ken was born in San Francisco, California on September 13, 1950. As the son of a military family, he spent much of his childhood moving throughout the world and experiencing many different places and cultures. Over the years, he lived in Iran, Texas, Virginia, California, France, New Orleans, and Denver before returning to San Lorenzo, California in 1965. He attended Arroyo High School and later earned his Associate of Arts degree from Chabot College in Hayward, California.

Ken met the love of his life, Mary “Tish” Hart, in 1978. They were married in 1980 and shared nearly 46 years of marriage. Their life was built on love, family, and caring for others. After settling in the Bay Area, they moved to Manteca in 1988, where they raised their family and made their home for the remainder of his life. He was a proud father to his son, Shane Hart, and his daughter, Jennifer Hart.

Ken shared a special bond with his brothers, Ronald Hart, Robert Hart, and Thomas Hart. He is survived by them and their families, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will miss him dearly.

Ken worked for the phone company for 30 years before retiring. He was known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and caring nature.

Outside of work, Ken found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved fishing, especially spending time on the Delta with his son Shane. He enjoyed the outdoors, swimming, reading, watching old movies and history programs, and playing Hearts with family and friends. An excellent cook and barbequer, Ken also loved bringing people together through good food and shared experiences.

Ken had a love for travel and adventure throughout his life. He and his wife, Tish, enjoyed camping, cruising, visiting national parks, exploring hot springs, and spending time at beaches and other scenic destinations. His travels took him to destinations including Alaska, Hawaii, Costa Rica, Cancún, New Mexico, and the Panama Canal. He also enjoyed a memorable trip to New Orleans with his brother Ronnie and, in his younger years, hitchhiked to Canada with his longtime friend, Tom.

Ken had an especially big heart for animals and nature. He found joy in feeding the birds and hummingbirds that visited his yard each day and took great care in looking after neighborhood stray cats, helping to have them spayed and neutered to reduce overpopulation.

A Celebration of Life honoring Ken will be held on Father's Day, June 21, 2026, in Tracy, California.

He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed, but his memory will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched and the family who loved him so dearly.