Kenneth G. Kammerer – O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Kenneth G. Kammerer, 86, of Quincy, passed away at 8:20 am Friday, December 20, 2024, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Kenny was born December 21, 1937, in Mendon, IL to George and Mabel (Wemhoner) Kammerer. On July 6, 1963, Ken’s life was forever changed when he married his beloved Barbara Jean Higgins at Salem Evangelical Church in Quincy, Illinois. She preceded him in death on October 29, 2020. Kenny’s love for his family was immense, and he leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories with his many loving nieces and nephews, two sisters-in-law, Sharon Higgins and Pat Daniels, and his dear friends, Ed and Linda Holthaus. Kenny also held a special place in his heart for Brandee Howser, whom he thought of as a daughter.

Kenny was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara “Jeannie” Kammerer; his parents; three sisters, Pauline Goehl, Vera Zanger, and Elma Kammerer; four brothers in-law, Bill Goehl, Norbert Zanger, Herschel Daniels, and Kenneth Higgins Jr.; and one niece, Connie Boling.

After graduating from Warsaw High School in 1955, Kenny answered the call of duty and served his country with honor in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1960. Upon returning to civilian life, Kenny worked at St. James School and in construction before finding his calling at First Bank as the Maintenance Supervisor, retiring after many years of dedicated service.

Kenny’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. He was a talented carpenter and woodworker, taking joy in building desks and engaging in remodeling projects. An avid sports fan, he cheered on the St. Louis Cardinals and held season tickets for QHS and QU Hawks sporting events. Kenny found relaxation in word searches and listening to country music. Kenny and Jeannie shared many memorable trips, with an Alaskan cruise in 2003 standing out as a highlight. Yet, it was the quiet times outdoors that Kenny cherished most, feeding birds and squirrels and sitting on his screened-in porch, basking in the tranquility of nature. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.

A visitation will be held Friday, December 27, 2024, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL. A funeral ceremony will directly follow at 11:00 am with Dr. Tom Dickerson officiating. Burial will follow at Greenmount Cemetery in Quincy, IL with full military honors provided by the United States Navy Funeral Honors Detail and the American Legion Post #37.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Blessing Cancer Center.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.