In Memory

Kenneth Berger - Class Of 1944

Kenneth Berger

Kenneth W. Berger, 92, recently of Chatham, IL and previously a lifelong resident of Olney, IL died on Tuesday, November 6, 2018 at Heritage Healthcare in Springfield. He was born on October 3, 1926 in Olney, IL to Charlie and Grace (Haskell) Berger. He was the first of five sons.

Seventy-three years ago, he married the love of his life, Barbara Wharf. They were blessed with three sons and one daughter. Kenny was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Because of his pleasing personality and friendliness, he was special to his friends and loved by his family.

Kenny was a member and elder of the First Presbyterian church in Olney. He operated a service station and auto supply store on Main Street in downtown Olney with his Dad and brothers, Loren and Carl, for several years. Later he expanded the business to include a new service station on the corner of Route 130 and West Butler Street and a new hardware store building. His two sons, Chris and John, joined their Dad in that venture. He was a member of the National Board of Directors of H.W.I. for years.

Kenny loved his home town and was elected mayor in the 1960's then Supervisor of Olney Township. He was also a volunteer fireman for several years. He was proud of his service. Kenny was a past director of the 1st National Bank in Olney. He enjoyed spending time there with the employees as well as at Thrifty Home Medical and Eagleson’s. His early weekday mornings began with the gang at Burger King and Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Barbara; sons, David (Christine) of Westerville, OH, and Chris (Cyndee) of Chatham, IL, and John (Barbara) of Nashville, TN; brothers, Earl of Olney, IL, Carl of Eustis, FL, Willis of Dade City, FL; nine grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death are his parents, daughter, Susan and brother, Loren.

A memorial service at the Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney with burial in Haven Hill Memorial Gardens at a later date.  Cremation Rites accorded.

Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home, Olney – obituary & photo – November 7, 2018



 
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11/08/18 08:46 PM #1    

Dick Landenberger (1957)

Barbara.  Just a note to say I have many memories of the times Kenny and my Dad were on the city council. He was very well thought of.  Dick Landenberger


11/08/18 09:45 PM #2    

Vernon Gross (1957)

Barbara,  Linda and I were very saddend to hear of the passing of Kenney.  Our memories of our many family outings and get togethers will always be with us as they were always fun days. We wish you and your family the very best and you are in our prayers.

Vern and Linda Gross


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