Kenneth Earl Munson

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Kenneth Earl Munson, 94, of Galesburg, Illinois passed away peacefully on March 27, 2023.

Kenny was born on March 21, 1929, in Galesburg, Illinois to Carl Arthur and Jennie Frances Munson. Kenny attended Galesburg High School where he graduated in 1947. He married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Ann Silberer on January 29, 1949. Together they raised two children, Deborah and James. They spent 64 years together until her passing in 2013.

Kenny worked as an engineer for BNSF Railroad for over forty years before retiring in 1993. Prior to the onset of Covid, he would spend many mornings with his old railroad buddies drinking coffee and reminiscing, but mostly gossiping about the railroad, Galesburg, and the good old days. Kenny was also a Master Mason celebrating 50 years as a member of Alpha Lodge No. 155.

Kenny loved camping, he and Nancy enjoyed many travels together in their RV with friends and family. He enjoyed collecting stamps and coins and was a member of his local coin club. Kenny was an avid sports fan. He was a season ticket holder for the Galesburg Silver Streaks basketball team for over a decade and rarely missed a game. He loved college football, basketball, and win or lose he never gave up on his beloved Cubbies.

Whether it be over a cup of coffee, a card game, watching sports, camping, or eating dinner, what Kenny loved the most was people and spending time with his family and friends. He will be remembered for his ability to make everyone laugh, his smile, and his kind heart. Surviving Kenny are his daughter Deborah Hainline of Galesburg, Illinois; his son James (Joyce) of West Yellowstone, Montana; his granddaughter Aimee Aplin and great grandson Nicholas of Portland, Oregon; many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents, his wife, and his sister Norma Jean McCants.

Cremation will be accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Memorials may be made to OSF Hospice Care. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.

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