K. D. Hestes

K.D. Hestes, 90, of Little Rock, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 1, 2011, due to complications of congestive heart failure. He was under the care of Baptist Hospital Hospice. He was born on March 11, 1921 in Redwater, Texas. He is survived by his devoted wife of 70 years, Wanda Ruth Hestes; his only son, Rocky D. Hestes of Little Rock; grandson, Kyle Hestes and his wife, Ana Thomas Hestes and great-granddaughter, Hazel Graces Hestes of North Little Rock. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother and sister, all Texas residents. K.D. graduated high school in Pyote, Texas as Valedictorian and attended college at Daniel Baker in Brownwood, Texas where he played college football and basketball. He served in World War II for five years, primarily in India and reached the rank of 1st Sergeant. Upon returning he, he started a long and highly successful career of over 40 years in the railroad industry, retiring in 1983 as Vice-president of Operations for Missouri Pacific/Union Pacific Railroad in St. Louis. He also was a 5th Degree Mason with over 60 years of service. Farewell until we see you again, to a wonderful, generous and loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. You will be incredibly missed and loved forever. Following K.D.'s wishes, graveside services will be Friday, August 5th at 10 a.m., at Riverwood Memorial Gardens, 301 Carnahan, Maumelle, Arkansas with Reverend David Moore officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday, August 4, from 6 until 8 p.m. at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home (501) 224-8300. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in his name to Asbury United Methodist Church, 1700 Napa Valley Drive, Little Rock, Arkansas 72212, Humane Society of Pulaski County, 14600 Colonel Glenn Road, Little Rock, Arkansas 72210 or to a favorite charity. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.