Kenneth Ray Van Hook

Kenneth Van Hook passed away on September 8, 2022, at the age of 64, after a long battle with cancer.

Ken, a life-long patriot will be buried October 21, 2022, at 2 pm at Fort Bayard National Cemetery, 200 Cam De Paz, Fort Bayard, NM 88036 with military honors.

Ken was born in Peoria, Illinois.  The United States Air Force took him away from the Midwest, after which his young family then settled in Pennsylvania.  Meanwhile, Ken was called to El Paso, TX to continue his support of the Patriot Missile program.  The move introduced him to New Mexico where he fell in love with the people, food, and country.  Ken always said that he should have been born in New Mexico, so he made the most of his 20 years in Las Cruces, NM by hiking, camping and fishing at all corners of the state.  His wife’s family, meanwhile, embraced him as one of their own and fattened him up with the best Mexican food in the world.  Ken passed away knowing he was loved and simply adored by his Mexican family and the wonderful friends he met through his work at Fort Bliss. Ken also loved his various hobbies that included classic cars, real estate and the outdoor life.

Ken is survived by his spouse, Yvonne; his children, Jeremiah Van Hook, Dustin Van Hook, Alicia Van Hook, David Graves; four grandchildren; his sister, Karen (David) Wheadon; and his brother, Barry (Corliss) Van Hook.  Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Lyle and Jean Van Hook; and his brother, Dennis Van Hook.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapel of Las Cruces and Sunset Crematory, 300 E. Boutz Road, 527-2222. Your exclusive provider for “Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com