Kenneth Eugene Gschwend

Born June 15, 1941 in Pekin, he was the son of Henry and Louise (Nack) Gschwend. His parents preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Robert and a sister-in-law, Sue Gschwend.

Surviving are two sons, Anthony Gschwend of Pekin and Joshua (Kelly) Gschwend of Lake in the Hills; one daughter, Heidi (Curt) Hutchison of Pekin; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; one brother, Wayne (Marlys) Gschwend of Minnesota and one sister, Darlene (Dohn) Winters of South Pekin.

Kenneth entered the United States Army in 1958. With the Army, he went to military police school in Ft. Gordon, Georgia and then served nine years active duty in Korea and Germany.

After leaving the military, he went to Caterpillar, Inc. where he worked as an emergency medical technician and fire inspector in plant security, retiring after 30 years.

He was twice elected and served as Village President in South Pekin.

Kenneth enjoyed camping and fishing. More than anything, he loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

His funeral will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, December 15, 2021 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Pastor John Plunkett will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the funeral at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin, with military rites will be accorded by the United States Army and Tazewell Military Rites Team.

Memorial contributions may be made in Kenneth’s name to the American Heart Association, 2141 West White Oaks Drive, #A, Springfield, Illinois 62704 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Midwest Affiliate, 530 Northeast Glen Oak Avenue, Peoria, Illinois 61637.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com.