Kenneth Ray (Digger) Hash

7/12/1959 – 5/21/2022

Ken passed away peacefully with his family by his side at Sutter Roseville Medical Center. Born on July 12, 1959, in Tulare, CA, he moved to Auburn as an infant and quickly came to love the town he would forever call home.

Although he only spent a few months of his life outside Auburn, Ken proudly considered himself a true Auburn native. He began working for the Auburn District Cemetery in what was supposed to be a temporary role.

However, thanks to his plumbing expertise and warm personality, the position turned into a 40-year career he truly enjoyed.

Ken had a deep love for his community. He actively participated in local events and especially enjoyed helping organize the Annual 4th of July celebration in Old Town.

As a proud member of the Auburn Volunteer Fire Department Hook and Ladder Company #1, he fought fires in his younger days and supported the team in other ways as he grew older.

One of his proudest accomplishments was contributing to the restoration of the Hook and Ladder Company’s historic 1914 Buick Fire Truck, now displayed in Old Town. His dedication to preserving local history left a lasting mark.

Fishing was another of Ken’s passions. He was a member of the 4Q Fishing Club and frequently visited nearby lakes. He especially cherished taking his great-nieces to the Annual Fishing Derby at Regional Park, where he helped them fine-tune their casting skills.

Ken is survived by his beloved wife, Claudia Buckley, and her children, Jennifer Martinez and Kenneth Bickel.

He is also survived by his sister Sally Lloyd, his brother-in-law, best friend, and fishing companion Tim Lloyd, as well as his nieces Kristen (Lloyd-Lindholdt) and Laura (Croft), their children, and many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Hash and Dottie Hash Lloyd. Known for his kind heart and gentle soul, Ken is deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

To honor Ken’s memory, please consider becoming an organ donor and give the gift of life—just as he did.