Kenneth L. Nierenhausen

Kenneth L. Nierenhausen
(1938.07.31 – 2022.02.08)

Passed away peacefully at the Ottawa Civic Hospital after a valiant struggle to recover from a complicated surgery.  Ken was born to the late Leroy F. Nierenhausen and Marguerite Brophy in Ottawa at home. He would soon be joined by his brother Brian Nierenhausen (Claudette), and his sisters Rose-Lynne McDougall (Don) and Maureen St. John.

Ken met the love of his life Darlene (O’Neil) and the two enjoyed a lasting marriage until Darlene passed away on November 4, 2004.  Their adventures including living in Holland, visiting their daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren in Georgia and trips to Jamaica, Guadeloupe and Cancun.  Their children twins Shelly and Steven passed away at birth, after which their daughter Donna Lynn Lott (Raymond) and son Kevin were born.  A source of pride was the grandchildren Jason Kenneth Deans (Michelle Reynolds), Jamie Lynn Mendez (Junior), Trevor James Pryor (TJ), Alyssa Lynn Lott and Lance Corporal Andrew T. Lott.  Ken was blessed with great grandchildren Megan Christine Rohm, Bentley James Guy, Hope Elizabeth Deans, Bryson Ray Mendez and Eversen Anna Mendez.

Ken was very proud of his Irish heritage which he commemorated with a shamrock on his neck for his 70th birthday.  He would be quick to tell you the family name came from Luxemburg and his mother’s side was Irish with the name Brophy.  He was a practicing Roman Catholic and he received many prayers and rites from Father Cooper during his time at the Civic. Many kind acts and deeds were performed by Ken of which he kept humble.  He was involved in minor hockey for many years and coached many fine young men, some of whom had distinguished hockey careers later on.  Never shy to meet people and talk, Ken especially could talk to the younger generation as their friend.

Ken wore many different hats during his career.    He had a successful livelihood with Pure Spring (Ottawa) and Pepsi (Maritimes).  He was a Sherriff’s Officer for the Ontario courts and ran his own process serving business.  His favorite position though was working as a Concierge at Jay’s Barber Shop in Bells Corners with Jason Nixon with whom he enjoyed a profound and deep friendship with for over 15 years.

Family was important to Ken and he is survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews and their children as well as his sister-in-law Mavis O’Neil (the late Jack). He was fortunate to have Linda Kennedy by his side during the last couple of years of his life. Donna, Linda and Jason Nixon (and shop dog Gordon) took excellent care of Ken during his 3 month stay in the hospital.

The family would like to thank Dr. Roberts and all the amazing Doctors, especially the ICU and Palliative Team for the care and dignity they provided to Ken and especially the nurses on 2D who made Ken’s last 24 hours so comfortable and peaceful.  The staff in the ICU and ICU Trauma 2D, especially the nurses provided excellent care to Ken and support to the family.  Donna would like to thank Raymond, Alyssa, Arnall Golden Gregory (Abe Schear), Tiffany, Heather and all of Ken’s friends, family and barbershop pals who prayed, called and/or visited and provided support during the last 3 months of Dad’s life.  Your kindness will never be forgotten.

An Irish Blessing:

May love and laughter light your days, and warm your heart and home.
May good and faithful friends be yours, wherever you may roam.
May peace and plenty bless your world with joy that long endures.
May all life’s passing seasons bring the best to you and yours!