It is in great sadness that the family of Ken Jackson, 71, has announced his passing on Thursday February 20, 2025. He has joined his mother and father Virginia (Hillison) and Donald Jackson, grandparents Bertha and Lawrence Hillison, and Julia Rynerson along with his son-in-law James F. Ryan to be with the Lord.

Ken was born on December 2, 1953, in DeKalb, IL, the son of  Donald and Virginia Jackson.  He graduated from DeKalb High School in 1972.  Ken was married June 5th, 1976 to Nancy Chesser for 15 years where they had one daughter on November 14, 1980 Amy Marie Jackson.  He has lived in DeKalb all of his life.

Ken was dedicated to his work with only having two employers over the last 50 years.  The first was with Spalding Composites in DeKalb, IL as he filled many different positions including entry level, floor supervisor and more. Then he was hired on with Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb, IL working in House Keeping.

He is survived by daughter Amy Ryan of DeKalb, IL; his grandchildren Matthew Moon, Acacia Ryan, and Jai’lee Ryan of DeKalb; his sister Shelly (Steve) Stover of Armona, CA; his nieces Kim (James) Rocha of Valley Center, CA, and Patty Stover of Springdale, AR,; his great niece Kelsey (Alex) Molloy of Aguanga, CA,; his great nephews Dylan Rocha of Valley Center, CA and Jackson Lam of Springdale, AR.  Also many extended family nieces and nephews.

Ken enjoyed many things over the years from family vacations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and California; to bowling and darts on leagues just for fun.  He also enjoyed the outdoors by boating, camping and having cookout with friends and family.  Over the last 15 years he was really big into NASCAR, by attending many races in person in Michigan, Daytona, and Pocono. He was a member of the Mt. Morris Moose Lodge and enjoyed spending time at the DeKalb’s Moose Lodge too!

Ken over the years has also opened his home and heart to many of  his daughter and grandsons friends and family.  Many of them to this day still call him “Dad” or “Popa”.  His big heart will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. As he has touched so many lives, with his kindness and empathy.

The family would like to give a special appreciation to Mindy and Edward Goldstick, North Western Hospital and their cancer center staff for their support during this trying time.

The Family will be hosting a Celebration of Life at a later date, so that we can celebrate is life and accomplishments with everyone.

For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.