Kenneth B. Maner, 86, of Galesburg, Illinois, died Thursday, August 31, 2023 at 8:40 p.m. at Knox County Nursing Home, Knoxville, Illinois.
Ken was born August 25, 1937 in Williamsfield, Illinois, the son of Thomas A. and Julia (Eastman) Maner. After graduating from Williamsfield High School, Ken served in the US Army from October 31, 1960 until he was honorably discharged on October 30, 1962. On July 24, 1971, Ken was united in marriage to Cheryl Anne Ellison in Galesburg. They enjoyed 48 years of marriage until Cheryl’s death on October 27, 2019.
Ken is survived by one daughter, Julie Anne (Marty) Maner-Stevenson of Galesburg; and his beloved granddaughter, Karma Maner-Stevenson. Ken is also survived by one sister, Opal Jeanne Arnold of Rock Island, Illinois. Along with his wife, Cheryl, and his parents, Ken was preceded in death by nine siblings: Lora Zelma Maner Gardner, Orin Curtis Maner, Thomas Ralph Maner, Ilene Maner Hobbs, Audry Maner Allen, James Huber Maner, June Loraine Maner, Larry Keith Maner, Arthur Maner.
Ken was a proud Union member of Iron Workers Local 111 for over 50 years, serving two terms on the executive board. To know Ken was to know a guy who loved having conversations and as an avid reader of newspapers, was always up to date on current events and politics. He was a faithful catholic and a member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church but had recently been attending St. Patrick Catholic Church. He loved all animals, especially his dog, Buddie. Ken enjoyed being outdoors working in his yard or going on walks. He worked several years as an election judge, enjoyed collecting antiques, and was an active member of his union.
Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, September 5, 2023 at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. The rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at St. Patrick Catholic Church. Father Nathan Hopper will officiate. Burial will be at St. Joseph Cemetery, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to the Knox County Humane Society. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
