Ken W. McIlwain

Ken Wood McIlwain, 64, passed peacefully at home on May 11, 2025, in Gahanna, Ohio. Born on September 17, 1960, in Columbus, Ohio, Ken lived a life marked by warmth, humor, and unwavering devotion to his family.

Ken graduated from Canal Winchester High School and went on to attend Malone University in Canton, OH. Throughout his life, he remained deeply connected to his roots in Ohio and to the people who shaped his journey.

Ken was an athlete in his earlier years. He played basketball in high school and excelled in pole vaulting and hurdling for Malone's Track Team. Ken found peace and joy in the outdoors and was an avid runner, no matter the season or weather. His love for animals was profound– he always said he liked them more than most people. He supported rescue organizations and shared his home with two beloved dogs, Happy and Pearl, and mourned the recent loss of his dog, Chico. A fan of classic rock music and movies, Ken especially enjoyed old westerns that echoed his appreciation for simpler times.

Those who knew Ken remember him as warm-hearted, funny, and generous. His unique sense of humor brought comic relief to countless moments, offering lightness even during challenging times. Whether among family or strangers, Ken had a way of making others feel at ease and appreciated. He will be remembered by his family for his funny t-shirt collection, funky style, Sunday steak dinners, and his love-hate relationship with the Cleveland Browns. Friends and family will think of his goofy impressions and memorable Facebook comments and messages.

Above all else, Ken was a loving husband and father. He is survived by his wife Marilyn; their three daughters—Lindsay, Taylor, and Morgan—whom he proudly supported through every milestone. He cherished attending their sporting events and celebrating their achievements with pride and joy.

Ken also leaves behind his brothers Mike McIlwain and Ray McIlwain. He was preceded in death by his parents, Woody McIlwain and Rubye Lee McIlwain.

Ken’s legacy lives on through the laughter he inspired, the kindness he extended freely, and the deep love he gave to those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Schoedinger Margarum Northeast Funeral Home, 1051 E Johnstown Rd, Gahanna, OH. A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Franklin Hills Memory Gardens 5802 Elder Rd, Canal Winchester, OH.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ken's honor to CHA Animal Shelter at https://chaanimalshelter.org/donate/ or to Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center in Columbus, OH, at https://dogs.franklincountyohio.gov/Donate/Donate-Funds.