Kenneth "Ken" Fiorini

Kenneth "Ken" Fiorini, age 79, passed away on January 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of gentleness, loyalty, and understated faith. Born on April 7, 1946, Ken lived a life defined by service and simple joys. He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam war from 1969 to 1971, often speaking fondly of his time stationed in Georgia and Missouri. Following his service, Ken dedicated his professional life to the well-being of others as a therapist for the DuPage County Health Department. He was a mentor to many, and the heartfelt letters from former colleagues and those he guided speak to a man who freely poured his life and wisdom into everyone he met at work. Ken’s life was anchored by his marriage to the "other" girl, “Chatty Cathy,” from a fateful double-blind date. He and Cathy were married on August 24, 1968, beginning a 57 year journey of unwavering loyalty through all of life’s ups and downs. A father who quietly loved his children, Sandy and Mike, Ken found his greatest happiness in simple moments being together, sharing laughter and fun. A great example of this was when Ken joyfully led a congo line at his son's wedding. Upon retiring at age 62, Ken embraced the "clean plate club" and the simpler pleasures of life. He was a man of many hands-on passions, including gardening, woodworking, and cooking. Whether he was tending to his yard, rooting for his beloved White Sox, or spending time with his dogs, Ken’s gentle spirit was always evident. He held a deep reverence for his own father and uncles, carrying their influence with him throughout his days. Ken was a thoughtful man who spent much time reading and pondering ideas such as psychology and the bible, partaking in Bible studies he enjoyed with his church family. Even as his health declined and he struggled with the challenges of dementia, his true nature continued to ponder greater things. In what would be his final lucid conversation, after weeks of being non-verbal and declining quickly, Ken experienced a moment of divine clarity. When asked if he knew that God loved him, he spoke with startling strength, answering, "Absolutely." When asked if he knew that Jesus had died for his sins and if he wanted Jesus to save him, he responded a second time with a confident and clear, "Absolutely." He closed a time of prayer with a final, "Amen!" This was literally a couple weeks before Ken passed. Ken’s family rejoices in the knowledge that Ken is more lucid now than he has ever been, partaking in the joys of eternal life with Jesus.

Kenneth "Ken" Fiorini

April 7, 1946 - January 16, 2026