Obituary of Kenneth Leslie Whennen, Sr.

Kenneth L. Whennen, Sr.

Kenneth L. Whennen, Sr., age 47, passed away on December 22, 2023, at Loyola University Medical Center. He was born April 12, 1976, in Joliet the son of the late Samuel Pierce, Jr. and Rhoda Pinkston (nee Whennen).

He was raised in Joliet and attended Joliet Central High School. Ken worked for Harbor Freight Warehouse. He enjoyed being outdoors by the pool, grilling, and fishing.  Ken also loved spending time with his friends and family, especially his grandchildren.

Ken is survived by his sons Kenneth L. Whennen, Jr. “ KJ” and Emanuel C. Whennen “Manny”; grandchildren Lorenzo and Camila; brother Nobie Mercer, Jr.; other siblings Michael Mercer, James Shadowens, Lacey Shadowens, Leanne Mercer, Timothy (Veronica) Norris, Tasha(Howard) Snapp, Christopher(Adrijana) Norris, Courtney Norris,  and Tamika Pierce; aunts Ruth Harris and Amy Whennen; uncles Carl Whennen and Art Blaha; stepmother Yolanda Norris; special cousins Jenifer, Whendy, Brandy, Vaneicea, Vanessa, and Kerrisa. Lifelong friends Clifton, Shaun, Michael; girlfriend Dawn Schraer; and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends also survive.

He was preceded in death by his mother Rhoda Pinkston; father Samuel Pierce, Jr.; brother Terrence Pierce; aunt Retta Blaha; and uncle Walter Whennen.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, December 30, 2023, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd. (at Essington Rd.), Joliet, from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. As it was his request, cremation rites will be accorded and a private inurnment will take place at a later date at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Joliet, IL.

For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.