Kenneth Darnell

Kenneth D. Darnell, age 75, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 13, 2021. Ken was the beloved husband of the late Christine Darnell (nee Hicks, 2006), loving fiancé of Sommer Trella, a wonderful father to Brad (Margaret) Darnell and Ben (Meghan) Darnell, a cherished grandfather to Christian, Lexi, Xavi, Mason, and Carter Darnell. Ken was also a devoted son of the late Josephine and Walter Darnell, dear brother of the late Gary Awalt, and treasured uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Ken spent 50 years combining his love for educating children with his passion for ministry. As a teacher and Christian school administrator, “Mr. D” made an indelible impact on everyone around him. Through his years of teaching, coaching, volunteering, ministering with the church, and reaching out to others, the extent of Ken’s influence cannot be known on this side of heaven.

A longtime resident of Crestwood, IL, Ken and his wife, Christine, raised two wonderful sons. He instilled in them a desire to love the Lord, work hard, play hard, and cherish family. Both sons are raising their families to do the same. After losing his wife to cancer, Ken found love again in his relationship with Sommer. They were planning to be married in October 2021.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 19, 2021 from 2:00 pm until 7:00 pm at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave., Orland Park, IL (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem). The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, September 20, 2021 at 10:30 am at Parkview Christian Church Chapel 11100 Orland Parkway, Orland Park, IL. Visitation at church begins at 10:00 am. A live-stream of the service will be available. Please visit Ken's obituary on Colonial Chapel's website at colonialchapel.com to view the live-stream of the service. Interment will be at Prospect Baptist Cemetery in Niangua, MO with a graveside service on Friday, September 24, 2021.
Below is the link for the Live-Stream:

Click here to watch the live-stream on Zoom of Kenneth's Funeral Service

Below is a photo tribute celebrating Ken's life.



Memorials may be sent to Katie’s Comfort Ministry at 23036 Pine Valley Dr., Frankfort, IL 60423. The ministry also has a Venmo account @kcm3787.

Condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.colonialchapel.com. (708-532-5400)