Remembering Ken Brenner
A self taught artist who began experimenting with acrylic and watercolor in the early 70's before starting a family and banking career became the priority. It wasn't until 2008 when Ken rediscovered his passion for art and was introduced to the medium of oil.
Ken was born on September 9th, 1946 in Los Angeles. His mother, Harriet, was a homemaker and father, Nathan, was a proud Navy war veteran and auto shop owner. A middle child, Ken displayed an early passion for athletics excelling in track and field and as wide receiver on Hamilton High School's football team. He went on to earn a scholarship at Long Beach State University and garnered draft interest from the San Diego Chargers. A career-ending back injury, coupled with the anti- war movement, would take his life in a new direction.
In the late Sixties, Ken decided to move to Berkeley and lived communally with cousins and friends. While embracing the Berkeley lifestyle, Ken became a preschool educator working at Skytown Preschool, teaching many UC Berkeley professors' children. A lover of nature, he was known to introduce the study of reptiles and amphibians to his young students. Later in life, he regarded himself as an amatuer herpatologist; fascinated by frogs, snakes, chameleons, and other rare species.
He would also discover and embrace his true life's passion of creating abstract art. His works were featured in local publications and shows.
While furthering his pursuit of education at San Francisco State University, he met Melissa, whom he married within a few short months. Ken and Melissa were married 44 years and had three children, Ryan, Jordan, and Courtney. Raising a family in the Bay Area on two teachers' salaries proved untenable, so Ken decided to try his hand at business.
He proved to be a natural business developer and became a widely respected and successful banker eventually becoming CEO at Avid Bank in Palo Alto. During his career, Ken was deeply involved in the Silicon Valley business community and mentored numerous people both personally and professionally. He met everyone with a warm smile whether billionaire venture capitalist or homeless person. He also donated time and money to various non profits including PTBE, Samaritan House, Cantor Arts Center, Stanford University and the Pacific Art League.
In 2008, Ken rediscovered his passion for art and developed expertise in oil painting, experimenting with color and composition. He went on to start an art company with his son Jordan, and his works hang on the walls of many homes and businesses today.
Kenny was a proud husband, father, and papa to Luka and Jonah. He was overly generous, thoughtful, and loving with all who touched his life. His sense of humor was priceless. When Ken received the devastating and unexpected ALS diagnosis, he and Melissa moved to Los Angeles so that all of the family could be together in his final year. He made a lasting imprint on the hearts of many and made an eternal impact on their lives. His infinite spirit and legacy will live on in us all.