Nelson “Kent” Hekel passed away from this earth on September 23rd, 2024 holding the hands of his beloved wife Tana, as she sang to him. Kent was born in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, on May 29, 1944. He graduated from Dexfield High School in 1962, then attended Iowa State University until 1966. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1966, and served during the Viet Nam war. He was Honorably discharged in 1969. He then returned to Iowa State University to complete and graduate in 1970. In 1972 he began his law enforcement career, in San Diego, later receiving his Masters degree from Chapman college in Correctional Counceling. Later becoming Supervising Probation Officer.
Steeped in philosophy, Kent heard his first gospel of Jesus Christ, then again in the early 80s from his sister, Karen whom had shared the gospel with him. Kent was baptized and began a life long walk with our lord and savior Jesus. Kent had many experiences in his life, good and bad. After his first marriage to Jane Ricket failed, he prayed for a wife of Gods choosing. This prayer was answered on August 30th, 1989, when he met Tana Corkhill. They had many conversations about their faith, which led to a wonderful 6 month courtship. They were married March 17th, 1990. Kent and Tana grew quickly with the Lords service, bible studies, sermons to the sick and elderly, even in a prison in Tijuana. He took an early retirement from San Diego County. Moving to White Sulphur Springs in April 2001, many doors were opened for Kent and Tana, first as chaplain for Christian Motorcyclist’s Association. Then as pastore of the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. Retiring in 2013.
Kent is survived by his beloved wife, Tana Hekel, of White Sulphur Springs. Daughter Jennifer Neher (Steve), Sons, Justin Hekel (Lisa) , Dwayne Spencer (Angie), Tecumseh Wooldridge (Althea). Brother, Dean Hekel (Barbara), sister, Pat Newland (Steve), sister Karen Harvey (Rick), brother, Ted Bair (Jane). Numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, a large extended loving family. Kent was preceded in death by his sons, Joshua in 2011, and Quincy in 2024.
A memorial service will be held on October 5th at Wilsall Community Church. Service starts at 11:00 am, 12:15 Luncheon starts, leaving for burial at 2:00pm. Burial service is at 3:00 pm, White Sulphur Springs. Stevenson-Wilke Funeral Home will be handling the arrangements.
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday October 5, 2024
Wilsall Community Church
Wilsall, Montana
Reception
Immediately following the memorial service
Saturday October 5, 2024
Wilsall Community Church
,
Service Schedule
Memorial Service
11:00 a.m.
Saturday October 5, 2024
Wilsall Community Church
Wilsall, Montana
Reception
Immediately following the memorial service
Saturday October 5, 2024
Wilsall Community Church
,
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Joanne & Bill Cummins says
Our deepest love and condolences to you, Tana, and family.
Margy Gerard says
Bittersweet to hear of Kent’s passing. He suffers no more and is in glory, but the world will miss his witness and larger -than -life personality.
I knew him in his days at San Diego County Probation, and my husband, Jerry, discipled him in his new walk with the Lord many years ago. I remember him as such a positive, enthusiastic personality, and I praise God for harnessing that spirit for His church and community. Praying for mercy and comfort for Tana and all his family. Blessings.