Kenneth M. Smallhorn's Obituary
CHARLESTON, IL - Kenneth Smallhorn, age 62, of Charleston, left his earthly home on Monday, February 9, 2015 while at Presence Covenant Medical Center in Urbana. Visitation for family and friends will be held Sunday, February 15, 2015 from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. at Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston. Masonic Services will be conducted by members and guests of Charleston Masonic Lodge #35 A.F. & A.M. at the conclusion of the visitation. Funeral Services honoring and celebrating his life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, February 16, 2015 at the funeral chapel. Pastor Chuck Trent will be officiating. Kenneth Michael Smallhorn was born in Chicago on August 27, 1952. He was the son of the late Fred and Mayme Lucille (Black) Smallhorn. On November 11, 1977, he married Sandra Shick in Fairgrange, IL. In addition to Sandy, his loving wife of 37 years, he is survived by 5 children and two grandchildren of whom he was so proud; Jake Smallhorn and wife Laura of Springfield, IL, Lucy Smallhorn, Kenny Smallhorn, Jr., Tyvon Smallhorn and Omarion Smallhorn, all of Charleston; and two grandchildren, Morgan and Evan. He is also survived by two brothers, Lyle Smallhorn of Orlando, FL and John Smallhorn of Surprise, AZ; as well as several nieces and nephews and their families. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Karen Davis, and a brother, Mike Farrell. Ken received his Bachelor's Degree in History from Eastern Illinois University and owned Big Jakes carpet cleaning business for over a decade. He was a faithful member of the Otterbein United Methodist Church in Charleston, and a member of the Arcola Masonic Lodge #366. Family was the center of Ken's life. In addition to raising his own children, Ken was a proud foster parent for over 35 years, caring for hundreds of children. He never missed an activity for one of his kids, and many will attest he was always vocal in his support. He was affectionately known as "grumpy Ken" by his grandchildren, but to Sandy he was a loving and devoted husband, a doting father to his children, and to many, a loyal friend. Ken was a hard worker and passionate about helping others. Even in his last years, he volunteered his time at the local Soup Stop, always putting others' needs before his own. Ken never complained about his physical challenges and he never let them be a burden to others. Ken practiced his faith on a daily basis, never refusing to help others, even when it was difficult for him. He had quite a sense of humor, and truly enjoyed making people smile. His talents as a tour guide will not be matched and family outings were always an adventure. Ken will be dearly missed by many.
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