Dearest Sally,

We were so saddened to hear of Kent being called to heaven so early. I thought that I hadn't heard from him in awhile, but know how busy everyone gets. Had no idea of the struggle you all have been facing. Kent was very lucky to have been surrounded by such loving family and friends!

Kent came into my life when I felt completely alone and questioning life. My husband, Jan, had just gotten us connected to the internet to help me deal with being so homebound. He was so happy and spoke of such a happy and productive life you lead. Really made me see that just because I was going to lead my life sitting down in this wheelchair that I didn't have to miss life.

Kent did more for me getting myself back into life than all the doctors and therapists that I saw. They might have treated my body, but he did the person.

Our family had the pleasure of meeting Kent twice. He was near our homes on business and we were able to meet for dinner. He was so funny and so positive. Such a wonderful person. While we are very sad here on earth, many people are smiling and laughing in heaven spending time with him!

Sally our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. If you need anything we are here for you. Look forward to meeting you soon.

Love,
Jan, Tammy, Bryant and Brent Hayden

Hi Sally, I keep reading and rereading your email. Maybe the words will change if I look hard enough. 

I read about Kent's death while we were in Redlands visiting with Julie's grandmother. She recently lost her husband of 68 years. She cried when I told her of Kent's passing. She said to send her love to you. I think only a person who has been in that situation can understand how hard it must be. I'm so sorry.

I read the following poem and thought about Kent and broke into laughter. I pictured him handing dogs bones, fixing clocks, setting up a new phone line, installing new computers and fixing old ones, watching the sun set, and figuring a way to turn salt water to drinking water. The world is a better place for having known Kent.

I will always remember him as the quick change artist. At each Black Tie and Tails, it seemed he changed from jeans and a t-shirt to a tuxedo within seconds. He was a true superman.

Love,
Laurie Monserrat

Stop all the clocks, cut off the telephone.
Prevent the dog from barking with a juicy bone.
Silence the pianos and with muffled drum
Bring out the coffin, let the mourners come. 

Let aeroplanes circle moaning overhead
Scribbling on the sky the message He Is Dead.
Put crêpe bows round the white necks of the public doves,
Let the traffic policemen wear black cotton gloves. 

He was my North, my South, my East and West,
My working week and my Sunday rest,
My noon, my midnight, my talk, my song;
I thought that love would last forever: I was wrong. 

The stars are not wanted now: put out every one;
Pack up the moon and dismantle the sun;
Pour away the ocean and sweep up the wood;
For nothing now can ever come to any good.

--W.H. Auden

Sally,

Love,
Rachel Wegener

This memorial site will be expanding. If you would like to send something to share, please click this link. He meant a lot to a lot of people, probably more than any of us can realize. Photos are a welcome addition.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in Kent's memory to Canine Companions for Independence or Pleasant Grove Community Church, his 2 favorite charities.