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Kevin Hegewald Obituary
1968 ~ 2011
Kevin G Hegewald, age 43, finished the fight on Tuesday, September 20, 2011, at home in San Clemente embraced by his loving family. He faced adversity through a recurrence of metastasized cancer with courage, optimism, hope, and unwavering faith.
Born June 19, 1968 to Rudolf and Eva-Maria Hegewald in Salt Lake City, Utah. Graduated from University of Utah; earned Medical Degree from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 1997; completed residency at Loma Linda University; thrived and enjoyed working as an Emergency Room physician for 11 years in San Clemente. He married Abigail Cannon on June 23, 1992 in the Salt Lake Temple.
Kevin was a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He served as a counselor in the Bishopric, a member of the Stake High Council for 6 years, but his favorite calling was serving with the Priests (16-18 year old boys). He served a LDS mission to Frankfurt, Germany from 1987-1989. He loved the German food, people, and traditions. One of his highlights was returning to Oberammergau with his wife in 2000.
Kevin loved life. He was an outdoor enthusiast - fly fishing, skiing, climbing, biking, surfing. He loved traveling and high adventure trips yet was as happy playing the guitar around the fire pit at home. Most of all, Kevin loved his family. He created many indelible memories coaching, wrestling, playing, traveling, working, and teaching his children. He set an unforgettable example of hard work, missionary service, being the Good Samaritan to the underprivileged, and befriending all the many people he met, yet his lasting legacy is his love of life and eternal optimism.
Survived by his best friend and eternal companion of 19 years Abby; his children Joshua (16), Sophie (14), Benjamin (10), and Samuel (7 1/2); his parents; brothers Mario (PJ), Gordon, Andrew, and sister Christy Gunther (Bruce); and his inlaws Tom and Gayle Cannon, Kim Johnston (Eric), Quen Cannon (Christy), Matthew Cannon (Jenni), Hyrum Cannon (Candice).
Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, September 30, 2011, Cottonwood 14th Ward, 2080 East 5165 South, Salt Lake City, Utah. Family will be receiving friends from 9:30 am - 10:45 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kevin Hegewald Memorial Fund c/o Abby Hegewald, P.O. Box 73681, San Clemente, CA 92673, or at any Bank of America.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Kevin Hegewald
Lloyd Harline
September 17, 2024
On September 30, 2024, some of Kevin's old friends (Bill Bunker, Mark Boud, Russell Bell, and me) will be climbing up the cables of Half Dome and we will be thinking of Kevin. We always think and talk about Kevin when we summit a mountain. We miss his enthusiasm and smile. We love Kevin Hegewald!
Lloyd Harline
Lloyd Harline
September 17, 2022
What a great friend! I miss Kevin.
Lloyd Harline
September 20, 2020
I miss Kevin. I have a picture of him on the wall in my garage workshop. I take it with me in my backpack on each mountain I climb. I will never forget his kindness, encouragement, and help when we were climbing Mt. Shasta. I had a bad case of altitude sickness and couldn't quite make it to the summit. Kevin rushed up the final 200 feet with crampons flashing in the sunlight, tagged the top, and came back down to help me quickly down the mountain. And I loved playing basketball with him - a pass first, shoot second, kind of player! And to watch him fish a stream was something to behold - he was pure joy! He was rock solid in his belief that he would be with Abby and his children in the eternities. I love Kevin and miss him greatly. Lloyd Harline
Lloyd Harline
September 17, 2019
I have led three ascents of Mt. Whitney with friends of Kevin's since his passing and have taken a picture on the summit with his memorial service program in our hands. We all loved Kevin and we miss him dearly.
Lloyd Harline
Teri Olaughlin
September 17, 2019
Wonderful memories of a wonderful man- so full of energy, smiles and kindness. It was an honor to work with him.
Dale Parsons
May 10, 2012
Recently, I heard of Kevin's passing which probably occurred not long after I saw him attending an Angel game with a group from his hospital. I was delighted to see him but concerned to hear about his medical condition. He was as positive and enthusiastic then as I remembered him to be back in Loma Linda when he was working his residency as a young father. He served in leadership at our church and was always a delight to be around. I have no doubt that Kevin is serving and blessing the lives of others even though he is beyond our sight and that his family will be blessed to be reunited with him again.
Viktoria Svensson
March 18, 2012
Kevin and I had the German Class together with Herr. Hassard the teacher. Kevin was a laughter of the classroom, made everyone laugh.
Thanks for the memories Kevin. You're sorely missed...
Alix Weiss
December 31, 2011
I came across this by accident, and I am at a loss for words. I was laying on a stretcher in the ER with a dangerously high fever and dangerously skyrocketing heartbeat, and this Doctor came to my side and fixed it. Unbelievable, this young vibrant man who saved lives, loses his own. My heart goes out to his family, friends & colleagues.
October 3, 2011
Kevin and I graduated together from the University of Utah College of Health in 1993. I was a grandmother and much older than my classmates but one thing I could always count on was Kevin's smile, warmth and friendship. He touched my life in so many ways and I am grateful to have experienced a very special joy associating with this wonderful young man. My prayers to each of his family. Love, Carol Weenig
Manfred Gulla
September 30, 2011
Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.
Dear Eva and Rudi,
We were saddened to hear about the loss of your Son Kevin. Indeed, losing a child is the worst nightmare for every parent. Usere thoughts are with you.
Monika and Manfred
September 29, 2011
I was one of Kevin's professors at the University of Utah - when he was an undergradue student in health education - and I remember him so clearly...a wonderful human being with all the potential in the world and he didn't waste it.
I am so sadden by his death - what a loss for all of us.
Onie Grosshans, HSD, MPH - now retired
Health Education & Promotion
University of Utah
Jean-Charles Lambert
September 29, 2011
I think everyone has a Kevin Hegewald story, if not several, and that's what made him a beautiful human being. I know my mother had a deep respect for "Dr.Hegewald," at the Hospital and for "Bro. Hegewald," as a faithful servant of the Lord, as well as just "Kevin." From the Lambert Clan to the Hegewald family our deepest condolences. I for one would do well to attain half the measure of a man Kevin is and was.
Ofa la'u feleni, toe ta feiloa'i se taimi o i luma.
Goodbye my friend, till we meet again."
Harry Snowden
September 29, 2011
Three visits to Saddleback ER over the years only to find Dr H taking care of me. The best of the best.
Dick Corey
September 28, 2011
Dear Abby and kids: I had lost track of Kevin and your family soon after we went to different med schools, and I was so sorry to hear of his passing through mutual friends. There was a window of time at the U of U when Kevin and I were in pre med classes together and interacted at the Sigma Chi house. Even though the time of our interaction was relatively short, I simply couldn't have enjoyed our friendship more. Kevin was so bright, energetic, and funny, and had that magnetic personality that everyone enjoyed being around. So sorry for your loss; Kevin will be missed and remembered by many.
Janice Wells
September 28, 2011
We pray that your family may feel comforted at this difficult time. What a blessing Kevin was to everyone who knew him, with his infectious smile! How wonderful to know that we will be with our loved ones after this life. We will miss Kevin, and will always remember his great example of the gospel by the way he lived.
Morrena Harris
September 28, 2011
Dear Abby, Josh, Sophia.Ben, and Sam, All of us in the Richard and Morrena Harris Family send our heartfelt love and prayers-we feel sadness for your loss, but know that you are a very strong family and have a lot of "faith" for the Plan that has been designed for all of us. Know that we love you too.
Louie B
September 27, 2011
He was always positive and kind at work. I've worked with Dr. Hegewald in ER and he definitely was one of my favorite doctors. He had a warm personality that makes it so easy to work with him. He was very very good doctor. It was an honor to have known him and he is dearly missed by a lot of the respiratory staff at Saddleback Hospital
September 27, 2011
Kevin was a man of pure love without guile. He made everyone feel like you were his best friend. He lived life to the fullest and didn't find much time to sleep. He could pack in a day what most could only do in a week. I will surely miss him and will think of him often. I look forward to seeing him again - and we will! That is the gift that the Savior gave us all. I love Him and Kevin.
Lloyd Harline Jr.
Eric Shipley
September 27, 2011
Kevin,
It's been 23 years since we met in Germany in 1988 as missionaries. You remain one of my fondest memories of that time. Your smile is unchanged. Your optimism was relentless. I don't think we have spoken in nearly 10 years and I'm very sad with your death. I told my wife today that you were instrumental in our (she and I) meeting with LDSSA connections at the U of U. Thank you for your service in Germany and at the U and with your patients. Great loss indeed. 'Til we meet again.
Anthon Beales
September 26, 2011
My deepest condolences to the Hegewalds. Growing up with Kevin was always an adventure. Scouting was always an adventure. Kevin loved adventure, and taught all of us to be more adventurous in our own. Kevin always had a contagious smile and laugh. All our lives were impacted by Kevin. It is inspiring to know Kevin never lost the taste for adventure in his life. All our best to the Hegewalds.
Leslie Parker
September 26, 2011
It was an honor and pleasure to know Kevin. From the time he coached our son Matt in soccer in 1st grade until our sons ran together in high school cross-country, Kevin had a smile on his face and kind words. My heart aches for the loss of this wonderful man. Much love and peace to Abby and the kids....Leslie, Scott, Matt and Chris Parker
Brad Burton
September 26, 2011
Few people impact the lives of so many with their smile, optimism and genuine caring as did Kevin. I attended Bonneville Junior High and Cottonwood High School with Kevin. We served together in the 9th grade class presidency. It was my privilege to have known and be loved by such a caring individual. I would like to express my sincerest condolences to his family for their loss. Our lives are defined by how we treat others and Kevin lived this to it's fullest.
Ryan Vaughn
September 25, 2011
Kevin Hegewald is a true hero of mine. He will surely be missed on this Earth, as he always tried to make it a better place for everyone. Whether it was in the water, on the soccer field, the park, the basketball court, in our homes, or at church... every experience I had with Kevin was not only a learning opportunity for me, but also fun and memorable.
Kevin, I love you.
Abby and children, the Vaughn family is here for you always.
Katie Eskelson
September 25, 2011
Love you all.
Karl and Sandra(RN) Schulz
September 25, 2011
Words cannot express the sadness we feel for the entire Hegewald family. Kevin made a difference in the lives of so many people; we have been the fortunate recipients of his efforts and have been blessed because we have known him. His smile was contagious, his compassion for his profession; envied, and his love for his family; endless. His spirit is so evident and vibrant in the greatest joys of his life: Josh, Sophie, Ben and Sam. Abby,our hearts ache for you and we pray that you find comfort in the many wonderful adventures your family has shared.
Trent Spafford
September 25, 2011
Love and respect to all affected by the passing over of Kevin. He affected many and will be missed by everyone... I don't think he could know the impact he and his family had on me when I was a young and impressionable boy... We went to Oakwood Elementary, Bonniville Jr High, and Cottonwood High together. We were on the same little league baseball teams, had crushes on the same girls, and scouted together. His infectious smile, funny personality and genuine love touched me and I'm sure so many others. He and his family were great examples of how someone could live within
the gospel, and reach out to those without. As a young baptist boy living in Utah, he opened my heart up to the gospel, of which I would later join, serve a mission, and raise my kids in the same light I saw him in so many years ago...
September 25, 2011
Eva and Rudy, I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless all of you thru one of the biggest trials of your life.
Your friends from Primary Children's Medical Center
September 24, 2011
You have touched so many lives Dr Hegewald. Saddleback ER (Laguna Hills) will surely miss you.
Jonathan Ord
September 24, 2011
Kevin, We love you and can't wait to see you again on the other side! Thanks for your smile, your teaching and your love! We are greatful to have known you and we are excited to see your family carry on the great Hegewald name. What a great celebration of your life today the Holy Ghost was there testifying of life eternal! Love you.
Andrea&Jason Ewell
September 24, 2011
Kevin has a way of making everyone his best friend. Your funeral, or celebration of life, was perfect...about 600 best friends there to thank you for your time on earth. The Ewells love the Hegewalds!
Matt Underwood
September 24, 2011
I was lucky to complete emergency Medicine residency with Kevin as one of the "millenium men". He was one of those very very rare and special people that had the ability to befriend and inspire everyone around him. He fought the good fight and finished the race. His example and courage inspires me to carry on, but I miss my friend. R.I.P. Kev.
"Undies"
Jennifer Newton
September 24, 2011
Thank you Kevin for sharing your spirit and teaching me about living with dignity and and grace...
Rachelle Croft
September 24, 2011
We will miss your smile, your positive energy and your love for life. Thank you for being you. Sending all our love to Abby, Josh, Sophie, Ben and Sam. love, Joe and Rachelle Croft
September 24, 2011
Kevin really leaned into life and made me and many others want to live life more fully. He will be missed by me and many, many people whose lives he impacted for good. What a kind, courageous and good man. Nancy Harline
Susan Foltz
September 24, 2011
Your family always set a wonderful example to everyone around you. I will miss Kevin and know that heaven has received a great man. Until we meet again.
Jessica Nattress
September 24, 2011
I worked with "Hege" for just over 2 years while travel nursing in the US. Hege is someone that stood out in my memories of my travels because of his optimism for life and positive attitude. Thank you for being an example to us all of how we should all live life. You will be missed by many for a very long time.
My condolences to Abby and Kevin's family during this difficult time.
Lindsey Wall
September 24, 2011
We have known the Hegewalds for 9 years. Truly you are the most amazing family ever. Kevin is the Best of the Best! Love you all so much.
Mrs. Y.
September 24, 2011
I had the good fortune to be Sophie's fourth grade teacher and remember her telling me how her family would get up early for breakfast and scripture study before school...setting the stage for a great day at school. This is the family we all long to be a part of...where not only do they say "I love you to each other," but they demonstrate what that means daily. Thank you for being such an inspiration to us all. Knowing you and your family has blessed my life forever. You continue to be in my prayers.
Patricia McAlpin
September 24, 2011
I knew of Kevin and his family through my son and his family, Michael and Autumn McAlpin. He was their friend, neighbor, and example of a loving husband and father. I know he will be missed by all. My thoughts are with his family and all those who knew him.
Candice Hall
September 24, 2011
Kevin was the most joyous person we have ever met. Our love and prayers go out to Abby and the kids. He will be truly missed.
The Halls
Goodall
September 24, 2011
In the brief time we knew Kevin, he has touched our lives forever. Love to him and his family. The Goodall Family
Michelle Hanson
September 24, 2011
My heart is full of LOVE for the Hegewald family. And especially our Sophie. Know everyone here at SCDPAC loves you so very much and we are here for you if ever need anything. We will all see him again in Heaven! Thank the Lord! Love your family at San Clemente Dance...
Miss Michelle
Austin
September 24, 2011
Probably one of the coolest young men's leaders I have ever had growing up. Never felt more sincere love than from Brother Hegewald. I loved him so much.
Kate Sproul
September 23, 2011
Kevin made the world a better place. He was such a wonderful example to everyone that had the privilege to know him.
Theresa Grothjan
September 23, 2011
Dear Kevin, My daughter told me that you were in the hospital a couple of weeks ago and inquired about me. I have missed out on all the laughs since I moved 2 years ago. I wanted to come out and tell you about how life has been for me. I wanted to hold your hand. You will be missed. Thank you for who you are and all you have done.
Theresa Grothjan RN
Megan Lee
September 23, 2011
What a great man, a great example of a father, husband, leader, and friend. Kevin, you will be missed! Thank you for befriending David and for taking the time to bless his life because in doing so, It blessed ours as well. All our love and prayers to you Abby, Josh, Ben, Sophie and Sam. May the love of others lift you during this difficult time and may peace and comfort be with you always!
Aimee and Howard East
September 23, 2011
Kevin touched the lives of so many with his compassion and zest for life. He was such a talented, loving, humble and gentle man. Such a great loss. All our love to Abby and the children. We will miss Kevin!!
Lucinda Reppert
September 23, 2011
Even though I never knew you may God Bless and keep your Spirit in His CARE and comfort your Loved ones & friends in their times of loss for they will miss you. Blessings in Yeshua
Andrew Fritzinger
September 23, 2011
Kevin is the gold standard in compassion and genuine concern for others. He will be missed dearly. May The Lord grant His family a Gracious Peace in this time.
Loren Beck
September 23, 2011
Kevin was such a great person, he always had a big smile on his face. He was such a good friend to everyone, was always willing to give a helping hand. I'm truly grateful I was able to know Kevin. You will be missed.
Annie Jorgensen
September 23, 2011
We are fortunate to have the Hegewald family as friends here in San Clemente. They are one of the most uplifting and fun families we know. Kevin will be missed greatly. He will forever be a shining light in our lives, an incredible example of courage and faith when faced with adversity. He had a unique way of making everyone feel loved and appreciated. When our son was 5 he broke his arm. He was terrified to go to the ER until we told him there was a chance that Kevin would be his doctor. There was immediate comfort. He has had such a positive impact on our family. We love Kevin, Abby, Josh, Sophie, Ben, and Sam. Blessed to know them. xo
Mary Jolley
September 23, 2011
Kevin is truly one of the best men I have ever known. I am so grateful for the time I got to spend with him. My heart is heavy and sad. I love the Hegewald family and my thoughts and prayers are continually with them. Love, Mary
David Lee
September 23, 2011
Almost 11 months to the day before the Good Dr passed away, we rode together in the Multiple Sclerosis Bay to Bay bicycle event. For most of the 108 miles we completed that day, Kevin would yell "We ride for Glory! We ride for Megan! (my wife who has MS)" His enthusiasm, charisma and compassion for my cause (riding for my wife), was so infectious that we had tons of people chanting along with us. I'll always remember how strong of a rider he was with what seemed to be unlimited energy. His personality was exactly the same. Over the last year of his life, I enjoyed our late night chats over Taco Bell at the fire pit in his back yard, philosophizing about life and trying to solve the World's problems. He told me that faith had always come easy for him. He just knew that there was a loving Heavenly Father and that there was a plan for him. I've never seen his faith waiver. I love you Kevin! Put in a good word for me up there until we can both ride for glory again.
Deborah Stapley
September 23, 2011
The Stapley family joins so many others in expressing our love and admiration for Kevin and his beloved family. Kevin will be a great blessing to many on the "other side" and we will all look forward to getting to see that contagious smile again. We'll not forget that great man.
Terry
September 23, 2011
The picture with the obituary captures who Kevin was. He was always upbeat, and smiling. Fortunately, that is a gift he has passed on to his children. I would be fortunate if I were only one-tenth the man he is.
September 23, 2011
I knew Kevin for years through the San Clemente Emergency Room. Compassionate, thorough.... I'll miss him.
Peter Rothenberg, M.D.
Brittany Longjohn
September 23, 2011
Cousin Kevin- I will miss your stories and your contagious good humor. I am glad you are no longer suffering, but indeed regretful that the road to eternity was paved with such strife. You won, even when you lost. You're winning now. We love you and can't wait to see you again.
Abby and kids-thanks for sharing him with us and being so kind and friendly when we were together this summer.
-Brittany Vert
Lara Mullen
September 23, 2011
My thoughts are with you Hegewald family. I am still in shock that Kevin isn't with us in physical form, but I am sure he is felt spiritually. We will miss him at our future High School Reunions DEEPLY. You are always welcome Abby. With Sympathy and Love, Lara Robertson Mullen
teri olaughlin
September 23, 2011
Kevin Hegewald was one of my favorite ER doctors I ever worked with. I have so many wonderful memories of our times at Saddleback, making jokes, delivering babies and our awesome beach parties, where Kevin sang and played guitar. I am so glad I got to know you. You will be missed.
Teri O'Laughlin, RN
janet carter
September 23, 2011
working with heggy, as he was called, was the best! no matter how crazy the situation was, he'd take the time to look you in the eye, and reassure you that it would all be okay. he was a very personable and compassionate doctor and friend. he will live forever in our hearts and our memories.
James Sperber
September 23, 2011
Kevin, your family, friends, colleagues and patients will never forget you. The void you leave will never be filled. I am lucky to have known you.
James Sperber MD
September 23, 2011
Our Emergency Room in San Clemente will never be the same. Kevin, you will be missed by your family, friends, colleagues, and patients. The void you leave will never be completely filled. I am privileged to have known you.
Kathleen McCabe
September 23, 2011
Dear loved ones of Dr. Kevin Hegewald:
I've had the honor and pleasure of working with Dr. Hegewald (San Clemente ER). His passing has me asking God why I get another day and not Kevin, and to be grateful for it and make the most of it. To say his joyous Spirit impacted me greatly would be an understatement.
He treated patients at their worst and most vulnerable moments, yet remained untainted.
I will miss that smile and gentle nature, but will always remember as well.
Peace to you all,
Kathleen McCabe
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