Tribute to Kevin O'Hern
To Lisa, Lindsey, Adam, and the entire O’Hern family
By celebrating Kevin’s life, sharing stories, and carrying forward his legacy, we ensure that a man who died too soon will forever remain alive in the hearts and memories of those who loved him.
"What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments but what is woven into the lives of others."
When someone passes away unexpectedly, as Kevin did, it can be particularly devastating for friends and family. In these moments, it is essential to focus on their positive influence during their time with us. As one quote reminds us,
"A great soul serves everyone all the time. A great soul never dies. It brings us together again and again."
There are many meaningful ways to pay tribute to a man who left this world too soon. Below, you will find some touching tributes to Kevin and his legacy written by several people within the Sundek family with whom Kevin had meaningful relationships.
Kevin O’Hern, a legend in Sundek and co-founder of Decorative Concrete Resurfacing, passed away on December 15, 2024, at 73, from a sudden cardiac event. Kevin lived a life defined by hard work, quiet strength, and steadfast dedication to his family and commitments. By his wishes, Kevin will be cremated, and his family will hold a Celebration of Life in Bradenton, Florida. In this special place, where they frequently gathered for many years to celebrate Christmas and welcome the New Year.
Career Highlights
Kevin proudly served his country after being drafted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. His service took him to Panama, where he carried out his duties with the same diligence and reliability that marked the rest of his life.
Following his military service, Kevin co-founded Decorative Concrete Resurfacing, a business that has been thriving for over 41 years. Known for his expertise and steady hand, Kevin earned immense respect in his field. He mentored many and quietly set a high standard of professionalism in the industry. In 2012 and 2024, Kevin was honored with the coveted ‘Spirit Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution by Sundek, a testament to his enduring impact on the decorative concrete industry.
Kevin was known for his exceptional product training, mentorship skills, and ability to recognize and nurture talent. His impact on the lives of his employees and other “Sundekers” was significant, with many achieving great success.
Personal Life
Born on February 8, 1951, in Rock Island, Illinois, Kevin had a lifelong connection to sports. Throughout his life, he was deeply involved in basketball, football, baseball, wrestling, and track. In high school, he excelled as a multi-sport athlete and even received a scholarship offer for track in college. Sports remained a passion, whether he was coaching women’s basketball (including his daughter Lindsey’s team), refereeing high school basketball games, or cheering on his favorite college teams.
Outside of work and sports, Kevin enjoyed spending time at Table Rock Lake in Branson Missouri, where he found peace boating, fishing and watching sunsets. Music was another source of comfort; he often played classic rock, oldies, country, and Frank Sinatra, which reflected his timeless and understated tastes.
His family survives Kevin: Lisa, Adam, Lindsey, and Madison O’Hern, who brought joy and pride into his life. Kevin was a reliable life partner and a generous soul who prioritized his family. Known for his willingness to help, steady presence, and availability whenever his loved ones needed him, he was also very handy around the house and exceptionally neat and organized. His quiet strength and unwavering support were the foundation of his family’s life and will forever be cherished.
Kevin’s life was a testament to hard work, reliability, and dedication. He will be remembered not only as a devoted family man and respected businessman but also as someone whose quiet impact was felt deeply by all who knew him. Kevin will be greatly missed but lovingly remembered for the strength, guidance, and love he quietly shared with all who knew him.
Tributes
A few tributes from Kevin’s colleagues and fellow Sundek Family are listed below.
"Kevin was the epitome of how hard work and being smart combined is a recipe for success. He had everyone's respect because he didn’t watch other people install and troubleshoot; he did it himself, so when he spoke, people listened. Another thing that I respected about Keven was his willingness to share what he knew with anyone who would ask. Best of all, being in his company was always a pleasure; he will be missed but never forgotten!!"
"Regarding Kevin O’Hearn: as the relatively new guy at Sundek, Kevin was a key mentor in getting me up to speed on Sundek. He welcomed me into the fold, took me under his wing, and was constantly a resource for me. As the years passed, Kevin became the old wise man I often reached out to regarding anything and everything, well beyond Sundek. Kevin was an excellent teacher, mentor, and friend. I am thankful for the honor of knowing and working with Kevin, and I will greatly miss him."
"Kevin was a tremendous mentor to both Jake and me. He helped us out so many times I lost count. I learned a ton about our industry from him. Whether it was materials or techniques, his knowledge was damn extensive. He didn't expect anything in return for his time and effort. He just wanted to help and pass on his knowledge. More importantly, he was just a great guy and a great friend. The Sundek family lost one of the original legends. I still can't process it. He will be greatly missed."
"I was a brand-new Sundek dealer when I met Kevin O’Hern 24 years ago. I’ve had many dinners, training seminars, four years of dealer council, twenty-some conventions shared with Kevin, and many cocktails downed along the way. One thing that stands out the most while reflecting on Kevin is that he made Sundek fun. He never rattled. I always felt he was genuine in his passion for Sundek. Even more so, I always felt he was genuine in caring how things were going with me. A year would go by, and it was like we just saw each other. There was no awkwardness. He was just so open and authentic, and in the moment, we just picked right back up like we saw one another frequently. That’s rare.
In addition, his great authenticity was evident in his laughter. Dear God, we laughed along the way. The dealer council was a blast because we just had so much fun. Those steak dinners at Salt Grass and various other restaurants and cocktails at the Crown Plaza’s “bar” were filled with good memories. He and I would frequently walk from the hotel to Sundek in the morning, then back that afternoon, and talk at the bar. It seems small, but it made a lasting, happy memory.
Kevin was one but a huge reason I looked forward to Sundek times in Texas. He was a piece of the puzzle that tied the vital business side of Sundek with the fun and exciting times and things we did when we got together. Just thinking about all those times brings back such good memories and vibes. I will genuinely notice the void and miss his voice and laughter."
"Kevin was the one who showed us the Sundek Way and how to shoot Classic Texture the right way. He was a mentor and friend. Over the years, we leaned on each other on systems and techniques. We worked and played hard together, and at the end of the day, we enjoyed a crown and a good laugh. You always knew he would be honest and straightforward. He will be missed."
"Kevin, your dedication and insight and your ability to go the extra mile have provided me and others with a resource that we will miss. Rest in peace."
"Kevin was one of the nicest people you would meet. He had fun with a joyful spirit. He always thought of others and was available anytime you called or needed a question answered. If you had not spoken to him in a while, he would call to check-in. He knew about all systems, tools, and anything Sundek-related. I had the privilege of working closely with him on the Dealer Council, where he served as an at-large member and mentor—a role he embraced wholeheartedly. He will be deeply missed by everyone in the Sundek Nation. Respectfully, RIP Mr. O’Hern. Love you, sir!"
"I'm deeply saddened to hear about Kevin O'Hern's passing. He was not only a professional in his field but also a cherished friend, mentor, and teacher to many. Kevin's impact on my life and career is evident from our 40-year friendship. His professionalism, knowledge, and leadership skills shine through in recollections of dealer council meetings and annual conventions. He was highly respected in our industry, and his expertise was acknowledged.
- Kevin's ability to balance seriousness and fun at dealer council meetings
- His role as a "ringleader" during more relaxed times at conventions
- The respect he garnered from contractors who recognized his deep knowledge
- His dedication to family, employees, and the Sundek community
- His infectious laugh and storytelling abilities
- His unexpected calls to check in, offer support, and discuss shared political views
To Lisa, Lindsey, and Adam. While he will be deeply missed, his legacy and the memories he created will undoubtedly live on. A respected figure in our industry. Many will feel his loss both personally and professionally. May Kevin rest in peace, and may his family find comfort in the knowledge that he touched so many lives in such meaningful ways."
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