Kenneth B. Hardiek, 89 of Teutopolis, passed away Saturday, January 18, 2025 at HSHS St. John's Hospital in Springfield.

**Due to illness in the family, the funeral mass scheduled for Saturday, January 25, 2025, will now be held privately. The visitation on Friday, January 24th has been canceled. A celebration of Kenneth's life will be planned and announced at a later date.

Memorial donations may be given to the St. Francis Catholic Church, St. Agnes School in Springfield, or the Teutopolis American Legion.

Kenneth was born August 22, 1935 in Montrose, the son of Bernard and Florence (Wernsing ) Hardiek. He married Barbara Holkenbrink on August 9, 1958.

Kenneth was a member of the Army National Guard and achieved the rank of sergeant. He served his country between 1955 to 1961 and continued his service with the American Legion Post 924.

Ken loved playing cards, reading, visiting with others, learning about American history, and was a member of the Teutopolis Knights of Columbus. He was a die-hard Illini, Chicago Cubs, and Chicago Bears fan. He was a dedicated blood donor for the American Red Cross, giving over 12 gallons of blood in his lifetime. His faith was inspiring to others; he especially loved bringing the rosary to those unable to attend Mass.

Ken held a variety of positions at the Chicago Daily News, Effingham  Equity, Peerless, Illinois Glove Factory, IGA, and World Color Press over his career.

Ken is survived by his children, Mary Ann (Danny) Joy, Marcia M. (Bryan) Plummer, Martha K. (Jerry) Thomas, William B. Hardiek, Melissa L. (Wayne) Cox, and Kathy J. (Mike) Robinson; sister, Patricia Weis; sixteen grandchildren, Benjamin, Kim, Kerie, Kevin, Kelly, Jennifer, Nicole, Jennifer, Rebecca, Justin, Jon, Elijah, Chloe, Spencer, Lauren, and Isabelle; fourteen great-grandchildren, Lianne, Casin, Clarabelle, Rayann, Benji, Victor, Vincent, Olivia, Scarlett, Harper, Tiffany, Ben, Jared, and George and one on the way; and many great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Barbara; siblings William and Carol; grandsons, Chris and Kavin and two great-grandchildren.