Kenneth L. DeOrnellas

Kenneth L. "Tony" DeOrnellas, 74, passed away Wednesday, February 2, 2011 at his home in Springfield. Kenneth was born on October 19, 1936 in Jacksonville, IL, the son of Howard and Audrey McDonald DeOrnellas. He married Janet L. Ryan of Springfield on November 13, 1960. Kenneth, a graduate of Springfield High School, and was a member of the U.S. Air Force Strategic Air Command (SAC) from 1956 to 1960 serving as an aircraft technician and crewmember on B-36 bombers. He then returned to Springfield to work and raise a family. After retiring from Fiat Allis, he worked for many years as project manager on the commercial renovation and historical preservation of several downtown Springfield buildings. After his second retirement, Ken became an extraordinary gardener, turning his small backyard garden into a total garden makeover. Flowers, climbing vines, various berries and a wide assortment of fresh vegetables welcomed family and friends to his backyard cookouts. Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Janet. He is survived by two daughters, Barbara Masterson (husband, Bat), Diane Saarinen (husband, Quinn); son, Jeffery DeOrnellas (wife, Linda); three grandchildren, Amber, Kaylee and A.J.; two great-grandchildren, Chris and Ceirra; brother, Howard DeOrnellas (wife, Lynn); and sister, Donna Fritchman (husband, Bob). A memorial ceremony will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 6, 2011 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield with Vaughn Beeman officiating. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center following ceremonies. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 687 E. Linton Ave., Springfield, IL 62703.