Joseph A. Kihn

He was born on September 30, 1936, in Springfield, IL, the son of Allen and Louise (Schlitt) Kihn. Joe married Sandra Shaw on September 16, 1961, in Springfield.

Joe graduated from Springfield High School, earned his bachelor’s degree from Western Illinois University, and earned his master’s degree in School Social Work from the University of Iowa. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Joe went on to work for DCFS as the Director of Downstate Volunteers of the State of Illinois, then was employed by IDPH, and then as an administrator with Springfield Public School District 186, retiring in 1999. He later worked as a social worker for the ROE 51 Safe Schools program. Joe earned the title of Boss of the Year in 1997 from the Springfield Chamber of Commerce and was also nominated for Illinois School Social Worker of the Year. Joe was a faithful member of First United Methodist Church, where he attended The Lord’s Class Sunday School, was part of the financial and senior committees, a marriage mentor, usher, and driver of the senior’s church van. He also enjoyed reading and was an avid gardener.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Joseph Peter Kihn; and sisters, Marjorie Meyer and Mary Louise Townsend.

Joe is survived by his wife, Sandra Kihn of Sherman; daughters, Heather (Wiley) Kihn-Jenkins and Ashley (Aaron) Kihn-Pasbrig, both of Sherman; grandchildren, David and Michael Jenkins, Luke and Andrew Farnsworth, Brianna Stufflebeam, Heather Wilshusen, Grace Pasbrig, Jacob and Grace Walrad; sister, Elaine Corum of Springfield; bonus daughters, Shelly (Chris) Walrad and Carla (Steve) Wilson; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. on Monday, July 21, 2025, at First United Methodist Church, 2941 S. Koke Mill Rd., Springfield, followed by the Ceremony at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Roger Grimmett officiating.

Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center, following services.

Memorial contributions may be made to: First United Methodist Church or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield.