Kenneth James Lauer

Kenneth "Ken" Lauer, age 75, of Hemet, California, passed away tragically on June 28 after being struck in a hit-and-run while riding his bicycle - a simple pleasure he cherished for its freedom and connection to nature. His sudden passing has left his family heartbroken, but his memory lives on in every story, mountain view, and heartfelt conversation he ever shared.
Born in Illinois in 1949 into a large Catholic family, Ken came of age during the unrest and idealism of the 1960s and remained a free spirit throughout his life. He studied Russian in high school at the height of the Cold War - a bold and unconventional choice that reflected his lifelong curiosity and willingness to accept enemies he hadn't met. In 1967, he earned a scholarship and went on to obtain a degree in electrical engineering.
Ken later lived in Colorado and California, spending the early 1970s as a house parent for adults with developmental disabilities - a role that spoke to his deep empathy and instinct to care for the vulnerable. He believed fiercely in standing up for the underdog, and he often struggled to find peace in a world where injustice and suffering were so common.
He was an old-school hippie who lived by his own compass - favoring adventure over security, meaning over money, and presence over possessions. A minimalist at heart, Ken didn't collect things. What he did collect were ideas, conversations, and causes worth caring about.
Some of his happiest times were spent off the beaten path - quite literally. He found joy in Lone Pine tending a small pot farm in the shadow of the Sierras, and later in his time with the Twelve Tribes - a Christian off-grid community practicing radical simplicity. Ken was wildly spiritually curious and open-hearted. He gladly took on responsibilities within the community, and when it was time to move on, he did so respectfully and - as always - on his own terms. He was still looking for his place in this world.
In his later years, Ken focused on loving his grandchildren. He remained close with his granddaughter, Sarah, and great-grandchildren, Marley and Nova. He moved to Hemet to settle down just to be close to them. He was an important part of their little family. Ken was very verbal about how much 13-year-old Marley reminded him of himself. He was incredibly involved in raising his grandkids. Even when hip and knee joint issues started slowing him down, he continued joining them on road trips, outdoor activities, and so many other adventures. Sarah and Ken were very close, and each of them saw the other as their only true friend. He spent a lot of time at her home and went everywhere with them. He had a quiet loyalty, a mind full of questions, and a heart that always wanted to understand the world a little better.
Ken is preceded in death by his parents, George and Kathleen Lauer. He is survived by his daughter, Michelle; granddaughters Clarissa, Amanda, and Sarah; five sisters - Kathy, Maureen, Maryann, Julie, and Corrinne; and eight great-grandchildren, who continue to honor his memory through their love, advocacy, and stories. He loved them all very much.
In the spirit of Ken's values, the family invites you to a celebration of life on July 28 - what would have been his 76th birthday - at 10:00 AM in Big Bear, CA, in the mountains he loved so deeply. The gathering will be held at the Big Bear Mortuary at 321 W. Big Bear Blvd. Big Bear City CA 92314. Ken will be laid to rest at the Big Bear Cemetery at 370 Maple Ln. Big Bear CA 92314, a setting that reflects the wild, peaceful beauty that brought him joy throughout his life.