I was deeply saddened to learn of your passing. You will be dearly missed. I always appreciated how you brightened my day when we worked together; you were a great person.

My friend Ken — I hope there’s Facebook in heaven.
I know you used to say you didn’t believe in God, but I truly believe you’re in heaven. You were one of those genuinely good guys — kind, funny, and always real. I still remember when we first met back in 1990 at Silo. That was my first job, and I didn’t know much about anything then. But you treated me like an equal from day one. You didn’t just show me how to sell electronics — you showed me how to talk to people, how to listen, and how to take pride in what I do. You taught me lessons that stuck with me for life. I’m really glad we stayed in touch over the years. The last time we saw each other in Vegas, we had lunch at the Wynn and caught up like no time had passed. I wish I’d known that would be our last meal together. When I found out you passed earlier this year, it really hit me. I wish I had a chance to say goodbye. But honestly, I don’t believe in goodbye — I believe in “see you later.” You were always more than just a friend — you were a mentor and someone I’ve always looked up to. I’ve told my wife many times how much you’ve meant to me over the years. Even though cancer took you too soon, it can’t take away the memories, the laughs, and the lessons you left behind. Ken, my friend, I’m really going to miss you. Thank you for being a part of my life and for the person you were.
I’ll see you again.

Ken, we were friends since high school days. Hung out together a lot. Great person. Not a bad bone in your body. Always had a sunny disposition. Always talkative. Loved your pictures of your Bohemian friends. So sorry for your sickness. See you soon.
Mike Kornacker

I was happy to spend time with Ken during a cruise excursion in the Cayman Islands. Ken was always fun and joyful,  took wonderful pictures and was always generous with his time.

I had the pleasure of meeting Ken through mutual friends, and being from the Chicagoland area, we connected right away. I later discovered we also shared a passion for photography at a Canon event—such a small world. I always enjoyed our conversations about photography and reminiscing about Chicago’s amazing food. It’s hard to believe I won’t see him around at photography events anymore, and the scene will feel a little emptier without his friendly presence. He will truly be missed. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.

Ken was a great photographer and I enjoyed many photography and equipment conversations over the years. Like attending events where we had the chance to collaborate on techniques. To the family I send heartfelt condolences.  - John Scott, photographer.

We drove by your old house on Everett yesterday thinking of you.  Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Kenny always put a smile on our faces. Rest in peace

Love, Karen & Wally

Ken had such a love of living a fun, exciting life.  He had a great sense of humor and would share things like this with me and make me laugh. You will be so missed, my friend!

I was in Vegas Dec 2023 and Ken was our tour guide for a day. It was like old home week for a few hours. He will be missed by so many.

He will be missed a lot, he was like a brother to me for almost 30 years, there wasn’t a holiday that went by that he wasn’t invited to, we were always there for one another. All I can s is that life won’t be the same without him.

RIP my friend.  Over 40 years of friendship.  So many memories and adventures. I will miss you.

OBITUARY

Kenneth Stewart Elsner

August 19, 1958 – January 30, 2025

King David Memorial Chapel & Cemetery

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