Kenny E. Aguilar's Obituary
Kenny E. Aguilar, age 82, passed away from cancer on March 4, 2023. Beloved husband of Pamela (nee Becker) and loving father to Maria Aguilar.
Ken retired from NASA Glenn Research Center as Director of Center Operations in 2009. During his 30 years with NASA he served in several capacities, including Director of Personnel for the Kennedy Space Center and Deputy Administrator for Diversity and Equal Opportunity at NASA Headquarters in Washington DC.
Recognized throughout NASA, Ken received many awards during his career, including the prestigious National Presidential Executive Rank Award, the Ohio Governor’s Award of Merit and The Exceptional Service Medal.
Prior to leaving Cleveland to serve at Kennedy Space Center, Ken was well known for his volunteer community service, serving on many boards including United Way of Cleveland, IMAGE, the Community Forum, just to name a few. He was a founding member of Esperanza, Inc., a scholarship and mentoring program, serving the Hispanic youth of Northeast Ohio.
But Ken was not all about work. An avid golfer, he participated in many sports, including basketball, tennis, billiards and ran 7K races. In retirement he enjoyed traveling, spending winters in Florida, hiking with his wife Pam, and visits from daughter Maria. He always looked forward to getting together with his “Real Card Player” and R.O.M.E.O.” buddies.
A native of Youngstown, OH, Ken graduated from Youngstown State University. Prior to joining NASA, he was the Personnel Director for the Ohio Youth Commission and Superintendent of Cuyahoga Hills Boys School. Ken will be remembered as a generous, caring, thoughtful and modest man. He leaves behind family and long-time friends who will miss his charismatic smile, and gentle manner.
In honor of his request, no service will be held at this time. Family and friends will hold a private memorial at a later date. His family suggests donations in Ken’s memory be sent to Esperanza, Inc., 3104 W. 25th St. 4th Floor, Cleveland, OH 44109
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