Kenneth Edward Higginbotham, 78, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 10, 2025. Waiting to welcome him with open arms were his parents, Chuck and Millie, and his sister, Nancy.
Kenny is survived by his loving sister Carole, his fiancé Linda, and a family who cherished him deeply.
Kenny was a devoted father alongside his former wife of 33yrs, Virginia, to their six children: Angela, Jon, Matt, Suzy, Beth, and Rachel. He was also the proud grandfather of 21 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him endless joy. Family was the heart of Kenny’s life. He thrived on celebrating milestones, sharing laughter, and creating cherished memories that will live on through generations.
Kenny’s entrepreneurial spirit defined his remarkable career. In 1970, while living in Kent, WA, he and Virginia started KC Manufacturing. Following a move to Mesa, Arizona in 1978, he turned his passion for business into reality by opening his first restaurant, K’s Family Restaurant, in Phoenix. This was the start of a prolific career in the restaurant industry. The most notable being the iconic 5 & Diner, a beloved establishment that became a nationwide franchise, creating memories for countless families across the country.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kenny had a zest for life that was truly inspiring. His love of boats, automobiles, and planes began in his youth while building and racing with go-karts, boats, and motorcycles alongside his father. At about the age of 17 he became a licensed pilot, a passion that later led him to fly the historic B-17 Bomber with the Commemorative Air Force at Falcon Field. His enthusiasm for life extended to exploring the world, sharing stories and creating friendships wherever he went. He was extremely patriotic and loved America.
Kenny’s love for family and friends, coupled with his boundless energy and adventurous spirit, left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, living life to the fullest and entrepreneurial excellence that will continue to inspire and endure through his family and the lives he touched.
A come and go celebration of Kenny’s life will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm with a missing man formation flyover at 12:00 pm at Together at The Landing, 2613 N. Thunderbird Circle, Mesa, AZ 85215.
Donations in Kenneth’s honor can be made to Angel Flight West at Give to Angel Flight West – Arizona – Campaign
Kenny, your life was extraordinary, and your legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you. Wishing you blue skies and calm waters.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
Aw, Ken, you will be missed. ” and when his wings could fly no more, he took the hand of God”….
Thank you Marci! We love you.
I’m so sorry to hear of Kenny’s death. We were good friends at Beaverton High School. Such a gentleman. ❤️
I’m so glad I saw him just a few weeks ago and was able to give him a big hug! I will miss seeing him around.
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. We send our condolences and our love! I knew only Beth and she is a wonderful person and a great reflection of her father’s teachings!
Sorry for your loss.
Beth, so very sorry for your loss. Our love and prayers are with you and your family. ❤️
Ken and I shared a love of flying, boating and automobiles but most of all the gift of laughter and the joy of life. I will greatly miss his friendship and want his family to know that even though he has departed on his last flight west he may be gone, but never forgotten.
Ken and Cheryl Baldwin. Palmetto FL
I went to school with Ken remember his car interest started with his Sunbeam Tiger . Also
Remember when he got in a minor road rage incident. As I recall he may have flipped off another driver! Undoubtedly the other drives fault ! When he got back to his father’s business he was reminded that the company car he was driving had several company logos on it ! His father explained his error in judgement! He was a great friend and great guy !!
Ken was my youth leader and I’ll never forget how much fun and giving he was! He always greeted you will his smile that was so contagious! He would so freely give of his time and talents! He blessed my life as my leader and I’m forever grateful for his true kindness and giving nature! He’ll be missed but never forgotten!
My most sincere heartfelt condolences go out to those that he’s left behind his dear family. We all love so much God be with you all! We love the Higginbotham family!
What a beautifully written overview of such a remarkable man and life. We are all fortunate to have had Kenny in our life.
Bill and knew the family for years. Bill has passed but would want me to wish the family our support and love.
Words can’t express my love for Ken. I met him when I was 15 years old. He was my Sunday school teacher and then leader in the scouting program. Ken showed me, like he did all others in his stewardship, kindness,genuine interest, and mentorship. Ken has been a great support and friend to me ever since. I will miss his cheerful demeanor, positive energy, and our great conversations. Ken was one of those rare people who truly left his legacy. I look forward to the day we reunite, he will be truly missed until then.
Dean and I are big fans of the Higginbotham’s. We first met them when the family appeared at our doorstep soon after they moved to Mesa from Washington. Ken and Dean became best friends and business partners. There was never a more loyal and generous friend as Ken Higginbotham. Ken was one of the first to visit Dean in the hospital when he had his bike accident. That day was when they started to talk about building diners together. The rest is history:)
I loved hearing from my dad about Ken all their adventures together in the 41st ward! Ken gave me my first job making balloon animals at his 5&Diner restaurants. I remember approaching Ken and telling him that I could make balloon animals and he said, “come to one of his board meetings with the franchise owners”. He gave me an introduction at the meeting, then let me present. I got the job, and continued working at some of his restaurants throughout high school. I enjoyed working with Ken at the office on Greenway while my parents were serving their mission in Indonesia. My dad only had a couple really close friends throughout his entire life, Ken Higginbotham and Chris Albright. Their friendship grew even closer while building 5&Diners across the country, as they flew out of state to decide on how to design and then construct the buildings. Ken will always play a very special part of my life and our Jensen Family!
Beth
I didn’t know your dad, but I know he raised a beautiful daughter ( or should I say family). I appreciated his teaching you about how hard work pays off. I am so sorry for your loss, but grateful for the knowledge that you will be able to be with your dad again.