Kenneth Lloyd Purden, Sr., 58, passed away on Sunday, September 26, 2021 in Fairbury, IL surrounded by his family after a courageous battle against cancer.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the discretion of the family.

He was born on November 21, 1962 in Urbana, IL.  He was a son of William and Shirley Purden who preceded him in death.

A veteran of the United States Army, he proudly served his country before his honorable discharge in 1983.  After his discharge, he married La Donna Kay Bowen on November 3, 1983.  Together they built a life in Fairbury, IL and had five children.  He worked as a mechanic until his retirement in 2013, but his passion for cars remained and spent his free time restoring antique cars.

He is survived by his wife; four children, Jessica (Adam) Jessee, Kenneth Purden, Jr., Marlene (fiancée Andrew Kubiak) Purden, Jonathan Purden; his two grandsons, Connor and Elijah Roy; five sisters, one brother, numerous nieces and nephews, his beloved dog Duke, and his "adopted" children and grandchildren.

He is also preceded in death by his son, Patrick and his step-father, Philip Sears.

Kenny will always be remembered as a loyal friend to many and a devoted husband and father who lived life to the fullest every day.  In lieu of flowers, Kenny's final request was for donations to be made to the family for his end-of-life expenses.