Kenneth Nekic

Kenneth "Ken or Doc" Nekic, 61, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2026, at Hospice of Central Ohio in Columbus.

Ken is survived by his son, Zander; his siblings, Ted Nekic and Lisa Ohmer; his nephew, Evan Ohmer; his brother-in-law, Chuck Ohmer; and his friend and former partner, Michelle Isroff, Zander's mother, all of Columbus. He also leaves behind countless friends, far too many to name, but among those especially close to him were Todd Jenkins, Howard Madvid, Donna Hohman, Paul Haft, and Patty Doughty.

Born in Canton, Ohio, to Theodore and Barbara Nekic, Ken attended GlenOak High School, graduating in 1983. A member of the National Honor Society, he also played soccer and competed as a 98-pound wrestler. His lifelong love of animals was evident from an early age, as he was forever rescuing injured birds and other creatures in need.

Ken went on to Michigan State University with plans to become a veterinarian. During his junior year, he was accepted into The Ohio State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. Though reluctant to leave MSU, he moved to Columbus to pursue his calling. During his veterinary training, he spent three years working as an extern and intern, living at the school while caring for animals and working with its raptor rehabilitation clinic.

Following graduation, Ken worked at several veterinary clinics while expanding his knowledge of avian and exotic animal medicine. In 1991, he began making house calls, inspired by his vision of creating a modern-day version of the veterinary practice portrayed in All Creatures Great and Small, the beloved television series based on the books of James Herriot.

Ken approached veterinary medicine with an open mind, a comprehensive and proactive philosophy, and a willingness to take on even the most challenging cases. Above all, he loved helping all kinds of people care for all kinds of animals.

Over his 35-year career, he treated an extraordinary variety of creatures, from hundreds of beloved cats and dogs to llamas, alpacas, snakes, lizards, and wildlife. About the only animals he didn't treat were horses and traditional farm animals. His passion for animal welfare took him to Africa twice, where he participated in efforts to protect endangered black rhinos.

Always curious and eager to learn, Ken also trained as a paramedic, hoping to bring advances in human emergency medicine to veterinary care. Following the September 11 attacks, his unusual combination of veterinary and paramedic training led FEMA to call upon him to assist with rescue efforts at the World Trade Center. While there, he improvised protective coverings for search-and-rescue dogs whose paws were being burned by the debris, using surgical gloves and whatever materials were available. His contributions to the 9/11 rescue efforts earned him recognition from Ohio Governor Bob Taft.

In more recent years, Ken continued exploring new approaches to healing, incorporating alternative and complementary therapies into his practice, including Reiki, ozone therapy, acupuncture, and chiropractic care. He remained committed to learning, questioning, and finding new ways to help his patients.

Although veterinary medicine was his life's calling, Ken's interests extended far beyond his profession. He ran marathons across the country, enjoyed visiting America's National Parks, and was fascinated by the life and work of inventor Nikola Tesla. An avid soccer fan, he enthusiastically supported his beloved Columbus Crew and Sunderland A.F.C.

Ken brought that same determination and passion to everything he did. Once he set his mind to something, he was relentless in seeing it through. He had a natural gift for connecting with people, making friends wherever he went and leaving a lasting impression on those he met. He loved bringing people together, often hosting parties—or "gatherings," as he preferred to call them. Whether sharing stories, exchanging ideas, or simply enjoying the company of friends, Ken had a way of making people feel welcome and turning acquaintances into lifelong friendships.

For all his accomplishments, adventures, friendships, and passions, nothing meant more to Ken than his son, Zander. Of everything he did in his remarkable life, the time they spent together was what he treasured most.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made through Ken's GoFundMe page.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Epstein Memorial Chapel, 3232 E. Main Street, Columbus, Ohio 43213. Visitation will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00 p.m.