Mike Hedden

Obituary of Mike Hedden

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James Michael "Mike" Hedden, 54, passed away on Februrary 21, 2026. Born in Frankfort, KY to his parents, James D. and Brenda Barber Hedden, Mike fled the coop in his 20s dreaming of a bigger life. With his best buddy they drove cross country and moved to L.A. only later for Mike to move up the coast to Santa Rosa where he attended culinary school and became a Chef. After 8 years of living the California dream, Mike came back to Frankfort and then met his wife Katie Flynn Hedden.

Mike had a passion for life, food, and connection. He helped jumpstart the rebirth of downtown by turning Buddy's Pizza into more than just a restaurant - he built a gathering place. He was happy to pull up a chair, have a drink, and share stories. He believed food tasted better when served with laughter and community. Mike worked endlessly and inventively in the kitchen to make great food with great flavor and to keep it affordable. He took pride in feeding people. His greatest business legacy might be the chances he gave others and opportunities to learn a craft. He built a workplace that felt like family and treated everyone (but you, yeah you know who you are) with kindness.

Mike loved music, especially yacht rock. He loved to mention all the concerts he had been to and all the great performers he had a chance to see live. For Mike, music, food, and community were all part of the same rhythm. He leaves behind a downtown forever changed by his vision, a community strengthened by his kindness, and countless people who found opportunity, friendship, or simply a good meal because of him. Mike's proudest moment was becoming a father to twin daughters, Quinn and Ava. He gave them his perfect face and great hair. He now gets to protect them in a new light and punch any boy he wants in the face that speaks to them.

Mike is survived by his wife Katie Flynn Hedden and daughters Quinn Marshall Hedden and Ava James Hedden; as well as his parents James and Branda Hedden; sisters Leslie Wakeland, Lori (Dave) Wilson, and Erica Riley; and several nieces and nephews. (And don't forget his dogs Belle and Buddy.)

Go turn on some music, pour a toast, and call your best friend. Mike highly recommends it.

We invite you to join us for a "slice of life" celebration at Buddy's Pizza from 6:30 to 8:30 pm on Thursday, February 26th.