Benjamin E. Kennell

Benjamin E. Kennell, 96, of Washburn, IL, passed away peacefully Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 8:55 pm on the same farm in which he was born.

Ben was born June 22, 1927, in Washburn, IL, to Solomon and Lena (Zoss) Kennell. He was united in marriage to Edith Pearl Hostetler on August 17, 1950. They enjoyed 73 years of marriage together.

He is survived by his wife, Edith Kennell; two sons, Charles (Julie) Kennell of Washburn, IL and Les (Jill) Kennell of Washburn, IL; three daughters, Rachel (Marvin) Hostetler of Roanoke, IL, Carolyn (Bob) Imhoff of Eureka, IL, and Judy (Stanton) Miller of Hutchinson, KS; seventeen grandchildren; and forty-seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Roy Kennell, a sister, Wilma Ulrich, son-in-law, Raymond Petersheim, granddaughter, Darla Shellhorn, grandson, Licahan Kennell, and great-granddaughter, Esther Litwiller.

Ben was a lifetime farmer and seed dealer. He enjoyed spending time on the farm, his family, and mornings at the coffee shop. After retirement, he and Edith spent the winters in Sarasota, Florida. They enjoyed going to the beach, bike riding, and eating out with friends.

He put his trust in Jesus as a young man and in his last days was patiently awaiting for the Lord to call him home. The family expresses appreciation to the kind staff at Compassus Hospice.

Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at Cazenovia Mennonite Church, 1086 County Road 1800 N, Lowpoint, IL with Pastor Dennis Kennell officiating. Visitation will be held the same day from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and also one hour prior to service, both at the church. Burial will be in Stewart Harmony Cemetery, County Road 1300 E, Metamora. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to South Side Mission, 1127 South Laramie Street, Peoria, IL 61605. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.

South Side Mission
1127 South Laramie Street, Peoria IL 61605