Graphic Media Alliance

05/23/2024

In Memoriam of Ken Eberhart

Graphic Media Alliance is saddened to hear of the passing of long-time Print Excellence Awards judge, Ken Eberhart. Ken had judged the PEA competition from 2012-2022, only skipping 2019 due to prior commitments. 

Ken's dedication and passion left an lasting mark on our community. Known for his keen eye for detail and commitment to quality, he was a mentor and advocate for emerging talents, offering insightful and constructive feedback to student volunteers that had helped throughout the years. Although there were many times he was reluctant to travel to Columbus for judging, he always returned home with a huge smile while talking about what a great time he had that week.

Fellow PEA judge Jeff Ekstein said "I was shocked to say the least when I received the news from Ken's wife. He was one of a kind! A great guy that everyone enjoyed being around. I loved our camaraderie and banter year after yeare while judging. We had great conversations and shared many good times over the years. He'll be sorely missed."

We celebrate his profound impact, knowing his legacy will continue to influence and inspire the PEA contest for years to come.

Professional Life

Ken Eberhart’s introduction to the graphics art field started at a local technical arts high school taking graphic arts printing classes. He received his first job from the school co-op program at a local web printing company that started the original HOMES magazine publication. His position was a film assembly person also known in those days as a Stripper. Seven years later, Ken accepted a job at The Merrick Printing Company in their prepress department in the same capacity, but learned camera, and plating as well.

In 1980 Ken left The Merrick Printing Company with an associate and started Total Color Corporation which was the 2nd prepress trade shop in Louisville, Kentucky. Total Color Corporation served the printing community, graphics designers, advertising agencies, and inhouse corporate graphic departments until 1995 when they found they were no longer needed in the community.

After closing Total Color, The Merrick Printing Company offered Ken a position as a print sales person, which he accepted. Shortly thereafter, he was promoted to Vice President. Ken recently retired in 2021.

Obituary

Kenneth Schalk Eberhart passed away at the age of 69 on May 4, 2023, exactly one year to the day after his son, Matthew. After battling cancer for months, Ken gently passed in comfort care at Hosparus of Louisville, with his wife Denise holding his hand. Daughter Hannahlynn was able to be by his side the last few weeks, which brought him great peace. He will forever remain a treasured part of his large extended family, who are far too numerous to list, as well as an even larger friend family, who will hold dear his humor, humility and compassion. His heart had no limits.

Ken was born to Carl Albert Eberhart Sr. and Adeline Schalk Eberhart in the Germantown neighborhood of Louisville. His love and talent for all things visual led him to a life in the printing world. 

Ken loved his time on the water, despite the fact that he couldn't swim. His love for fishing, either from his kayaks or from the boat he shared with friend and fellow fisherman Carl, was his passion and his peace. Care and creation of new visual additions to his house and yard were ever changing missions.

He will be best remembered sitting by the pond he built with his grandson Cameron, listening to music, sipping on a bourbon and cheering to all things positive.

View the full obituary