Back in 1967, I took a summer job before entering my sophomore year of college, painting the interiors of various schools in Farmington. Ken Heil was my working mate, himself a schoolteacher. We became lifelong friends.
He was one of New Mexico's brightest, and most engaging and eloquent men. Finally, a professor of geology at San Juan College, Ken authored three books on the varied plant life in our state, including co-authoring a large field guide soon to come off the press, Vascular Plants of New Mexico. He wrote many articles for Native Plants of New Mexico as well.
Ken Heil was a most honorable and treasured citizen of our fair city, whom we lost on Jan. 16, 2024. He was kind, intelligent, funny and generous. For over 50 years, every time I've driven past Swinburne Elementary on Butler, I remember that beautiful summer when I met one of my finest friends.
Ken is survived by his wife Marilyn, and sons Mike and Mark.
Kenneth Heil was A Man for the Ages. May he rest in peace.
Rod S. Hubble
Farmington
