Kennard Robert Wilson

Ken dedicated his life to service, faith, and education. He served as a minister in Wisconsin and Iowa, and later as pastor of First Baptist Church of South Bend, where he faithfully led his congregation until his retirement from ministry in 2002. Following retirement, Ken felt called to serve in a new way and returned to school to earn a teaching certificate. He became a beloved 3rd grade teacher at Kennedy Academy in South Bend, where he often reflected that guiding and instructing children in their education was the most rewarding experience of his professional life.

Ken was a loving and devoted husband who deeply cherished his wife, Judith A. “Judy” Wilson. Judy was the brightest star in his life, and he often said she made him a better person and that he could not imagine life without her. They were truly two peas in a pod -- always together, sharing every part of life side by side.

To Tom, his son, Ken was not only a father but also his best friend. He guided him to be a better person and was a steady rock and pillar of support, lifting him up during difficult times and helping steer him across rough waters with love, wisdom, and unwavering encouragement. And to Nichole, his daughter-in-law, Ken was a gift in every sense—first as the father who shaped the man she loves, and then as the grandfather who showed up with limitless patience for the joyful chaos of childhood. His calm, loving presence brought depth and warmth to their family beyond what words can capture.

Ken’s lifelong passion for teaching and mentoring shone brightly in his role as a grandfather. Known affectionately to some as “Gramps” and lovingly described as “salty sweet,” he adored all of his grandchildren, whether close by or far away. A devoted grandfather, he could often be found teaching chess moves, reading with them, cheering at baseball and basketball games and swim practices, organizing pennies by mint year, helping with science fair projects, building an HO electric train table, playing cards, board games, and pool, teaching bike riding, and spending long summer days at play in many parks. He delighted in encouraging their curiosity, growth, and joy.

Ken was an avid bicyclist (and did many long distance bike rides with his son, Ken), loved working on jigsaw puzzles, reading books -- especially history, with a particular passion for World War II -- enjoying fine wines, watching Notre Dame football games with Tom, catching up on life with his sisters, and always trying to squeeze every bit of joy and happiness from every moment of life.

He is survived by his wife, Judith A. Wilson; his son Thomas M. Wilson (Nichole Smyth-Wilson) and grandsons Finn Wilson and Rhys Wilson; his son Kennard S. Wilson (Anita Wilson) and grandson Lincoln Wilson and granddaughter Britt Wilson; and his sisters, Marianne Wesner and Gail Jones.

Ken will be remembered for his deep faith, gentle guidance, love of learning, and the profound impact he made on the lives of those he taught, led, and loved.

No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Ken’s honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.