Ken Hafer

Special Recognition

After so many years of working to promote his community, Ken Hafer is getting the laudatory attention he so richly deserved—induction into the Manteca-Lathrop-French Camp Hall of Fame. Ken never sought public recognition or political office. In fact, he often refused proposals to do so from acquaintances. On the personal side, Ken Hafer was graduated from Manteca High School, married Alice Aufdermaur, his high school sweetheart, immersed himself in the local and business community and raised a family. During these years, he became active in the San Joaquin Valley Swiss Club, served as its president and was a Life Member. A faithful Catholic, he was a devoted husband and family man and became active in church organizations. Publicly, his perfect speaking voice and ease before the public made him a popular master of ceremonies at many local events. The often-used term “a self-made man” was an exact description of Ken Hafer. No one gave him anything—his many business and civic successes were a result of his own efforts. His successful furniture stores, his leadership as president (arguably, the youngest) of the Manteca Chamber of Commerce, and in the establishment of the Manteca Historical Society and Museum in which he was active until the end of his life are a testament to his determination and drive. It has been said that if a person had a question about Manteca history, no matter how trivial, Ken had the correct answer. A list of his accomplishments for the betterment of the Manteca community would be too long for his brief summary. Truly, Ken Hafer was “Mr. Manteca”.