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Kenneth E. Ward, age 88 of Davis, IL, passed away on Friday, July 4, 2025 with his devoted wife Vyonne at his side. He was born June 29, 1937 in Garfield Heights, OH; the son of the late Hoyte and Gertrude (Grab) Ward. Kenneth married Vyonne (Foss) Vehmeier on May 27, 1984.

He served in the United States Army, stationed at the Pentagon from 1959-1961. Ken's was a salesman, working the longest for Southwest Forest and Sycamore Containers. He was an active member of Faith Community Church of Davis, IL where he served on the church Administration Board and led Bible studies in his home. He also served on the Stephenson County Board and was the Mayor of Stillman Valley in 1982. He was instrumental in getting the village a new water tower and system.

Ken enjoyed photography, playing cards, and spending time with his family. He especially enjoyed his grandkids and great grandkids; teaching them card games and how to fish at the lake. He loved to joke and tease. He was known as "Grandpa Toe Pincher", "Popka", and "Kunkle" and was notorious for his dad jokes.

He is survived by his wife, Vyonne; daughters, Julie Aguirre and Kim Hylton (Butch); step-sons, Mike Vehmeier (Sandy) and Steve Vehmeier; grandchildren, Brianne Hamilton, Brandon Hylton (Paula), Bret Hylton (Megan), Joanna Brocato; step-grandchildren Alisia Neubeck (Andrew Musolf), Isaac Vehmeier (Emily), Ashley Vehmeier (Jason Paholski), Andrew Vehmeier; great-grandchildren: Calvin, Juliana, Grace, Hope, Clark, Cassie, Austin, Ayden, Addie, step-great-grandchildren Jax, Ryan, Emmit.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hoyte and Gertrude (Grab) Ward; his late wife, Jackie (Barr) Ward; brother, Richard Ward and wife, Jane; and niece, Kathy Ward Wilde.

The funeral service will be held Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Daughenbaugh Funeral Home in Dakota, IL with Pastor Bob Kolb presiding. There will be a visitation before the service beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Freeport, IL. A memorial fund has been established in his name. Condolences may be shared at www.walkermortuary.com.