Kenneth H. Thoele (87) of Effingham

Kenneth H. Thoele, 87, of Effingham, IL, passed away on Monday, May 6, 2024 at Willowbrook Memory Support Residences in Effingham.

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 21, 2024 at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Effingham. Burial will be in St. Anthony Cemetery in Effingham with military rites. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 20, 2024 with a 7:00 p.m. Knights of Columbus rosary to follow at Johnson Funeral Home in Effingham. Memorials may be made to Teutopolis American Legion Post 924 and Teutopolis Knights of Columbus Council 2874. Online condolences may be shared by clicking here.

Kenneth was born on August 23, 1936 in Teutopolis, IL, the son of Albert and Bertha (Meyer) Thoele. He married Constance “Connie” Bence on September 20, 1975 and she preceded him in death on February 21, 2011. Kenny was fondly known as “Rooster” in Teutopolis. He served in the United States Navy from 1954 to 1957. During that time, he traveled to France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey and Sicily, to name a few. Still, the prettiest site he said he ever saw was a cornfield on the edge of Teutopolis, where he grew up. Following his military service, Kenny worked as a carpenter and later at World Color Press in General Services, where he retired after 20 years. He attended St. Anthony Church and was a member of Teutopolis American Legion Post 924, Teutopolis Knights of Columbus Council 2874 and the VFW. Kenny was a beacon of kindness and humor, always eager to connect with people. He had a knack for making everyone feel seen and heard, often asking about their name and hometown. His quick wit and infectious smile, even in the face of dementia, will be cherished by all who knew him. He had a love for country and polka music, and a belief that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. He was a devoted husband and father, caring for his wife during her illness.

Kenny is survived by his daughters, Catherine (Tim) Griffith and Susan (Jude) Dutton, both of Effingham; granddaughter Leah Griffith; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Connie Thoele; granddaughter, Christina Rose Griffith; and sister, Virginia Thies.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the support and condolences received during this difficult time. They would also like to thank the staff at Willowbrook for the exceptional care they provided Kenny over the past year and a half.