Ken Maler

Kenneth Ray "Ken" Maler, age 90, of West, passed away Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at Hill Regional Hospital in Hillsboro.

Funeral services will be held 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West, with Rev. Timothy Vaverek officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Ken was born December 24, 1935, in Abbott, the son of Albert and Jimmie Dae (Altum) Maler. He was raised in Abbott and attended local schools there. On November 12, 1967, Ken married the love of his life, Leona Detterman Reichelt, in West. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and memories until Leona's passing on July 23, 2021, which left a profound impact on his heart. Ken proudly served in the Texas National Guard, reflecting his unwavering commitment to his country and community. He was an active member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption and contributed his time and talents to various local organizations, including RVOS Lodge #46, SPJST Lodge #54, American Legion Post #478, and the West Longhorn Club, where he formerly held the position of president. In his younger work life he owned and operated Maler's Sinclair Station in West. A gifted butcher, Ken dedicated many years to serving the community through his work at Burlington Textiles in West, and Nemecek Brothers Meat Market before moving to Whitney, where he spent his latter career at David's Super Market, bringing joy to customers with his friendly demeanor and exceptional skills. Ken was known for his love of the outdoors, finding joy in fishing, boating, and horseback riding. His spirited participation in demolition derbies showcased his adventurous side, while his tinkering in his shop reflected his creative nature. His family knew him as a devoted host, always opening his home and lake house in Whitney for joyful family gatherings.

Ken is also preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Albert Jr., Charles, John Earl, Joe Edd, Jerry, James, Jimmy, and Stephen Maler; sisters, Elizabeth Maler and Linda Whalen.

Survivors include his daughters, Lana Green and husband Robert "Woody", Debbie Sullivan and husband Mike, and Carla Payne and husband Robby; a granddaughter, Tina Green; sisters, Beulah Zahirniak and husband Bill "Pee Wee", Beverly Keen, and Janet Peterson; sisters-in-law, Elizabeth "Jeanie" Maler, Doris Maler, and Terri Maler Blevins; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the West Volunteer Ambulance Association or the West Volunteer Fire Department.

Ken daughters' would like to thank the staff of West Rest Haven, the West Volunteer Ambulance Association, the staff of Hill Regional Hospital, the emergency room staff of Hill Regional, Providence Hospice, Dr. Jeremiah Seely, and all of those who cared for Ken over the last couple of years and especially the last week, "Your care and compassion meant the world to us, thank you so much".