Kenneth Paul Durbin's Obituary
Decatur-Kenneth Paul Durbin, 83, of Decatur, passed away at 8:01 a.m. Monday, November 24, 2014 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Decatur surrounded by his loving family and friends.
Kenny was born March 6, 1931 in Decatur the son of Phillip and Irene (Sowski) Durbin. He proudly served in the USAF from 1951-1955. He was previously employed as a meat cutter with Eisner/Jewell retiring after forty-five years of service. He treasured his Catholic faith and was a faithful member of Saints James and Patrick Parish. In his early years he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his father, son, and eventually his grandson. In his later years he enjoyed watching television and telling stories. He was loved and admired by anyone who was fortunate to have been in his life. His sharp mind and sense of humor is what everyone enjoyed the most about him. He could tell you a story that would leave you chuckling with a grin on your face long after the story was over. Kenny was a simple man with a heart of gold. He loved his wife and all of his family. He married Sarah Carroll July 24, 1955. They shared over fifty-nine years together.
Kenny leaves behind his beloved wife Sarah, son Steve (Debbie) Durbin, daughters Lorri (Mark) Powell and Carolyn Durbin, sisters Loretta Umpfleet, Phyllis (Dave) Fleigle, and Rose Marie “D-Day” Durbin, grandchildren Brandon Durbin, Alicia Durbin, and Amber Powell, and great-grandchild Westen Jaramillo.
Kenny was reunited in Heaven with his parents, sweet baby Gage Durbin, best friends Bob and Ginny Peer and other family and special friends.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Verma and nurses and staff, visiting nurse Joy, DMH, Heartland Nursing Home, St. Mary’s nurses and staff in the ER, ICU, and fourth floor for all of their compassionate care and especially to Dr. Khan and nurses and staff who was highly devoted in providing quality of life for Kenny.
The family also greatly appreciates all the support from family and friends as Kenny’s health declined.
Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Kenny’s life will be 10 a.m. Friday, November 28, 2014 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 407 E Eldorado St, Decatur, with Rev. John Burnette, Celebrant. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the Mass at the church. The family requests casual attire. Burial with “Flight Home” Ceremony will be in Graceland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the American Legion Castle Williams Post 105 in Decatur.
The family of Kenneth Paul Durbin is being served by the Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home, 2091 N. Oakland Ave. Decatur, IL. Please view the online obituary, send condolences, and share memories at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Kenneth?
What’s a lesson you learned from Kenneth?
Share a story where Kenneth's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Kenneth you’ll never forget.
How did Kenneth make you smile?