Kenneth J. Lahner

Kenneth Jack Lahner of Itasca, IL, devoted family man, community leader, successful business man and proud Republican passed away Saturday, November 11, 2017. Earlier in the evening he attended a family dinner with his wife, all of his children, in-laws and grandchildren. Upon returning home from dinner he passed away. The family will forever treasure this last get together filled with laughter and love.

Ken was born in Chicago, IL January 12, 1933 to Herman and Mary (Rohrer) Lahner. He served as a Sergeant in the Air Force during the Korean War. After leaving the Air Force, Ken began his service to the community of Itasca. He served 10 years on the Board of the Itasca Park District, with a term as President and was instrumental in starting the Itasca Nature Center and the Itasca Pool. He was also a leader in community philanthropy starting the Jaycees in Itasca as well as being a longtime member of the Lions Club, Indian Princess and Indian Guide Clubs.

Politics was Ken’s passion. He served in many capacities during his career; Precinct Captain for Addison Township, was a DuPage County Board Member, Forest Preserve Commissioner, Chairman of the Public Works Dept. and Vice Chairman of the Finance Committee. He then served as the DuPage County Recorder of Deeds and later the DuPage County Comptroller.

Ken said he left politics, however no one ever believed him, to become Vice President/General Manager of Elmhurst Chicago Stone where he worked for over 25 years. Recently he helped develop the Brewster Creek Industrial Park in Bartlett.

Of all of Ken’s accomplishments in life he was most proud of his family. He leaves his wife of 57 years, Lois Lahner (nee Dolph). He was a devoted father to Kerry Lahner Jennejahn, Scott (Nicoletta) Lahner, Christopher (Lisa) Lahner and the late Kimberly Lahner. Loving Grandfather of Shannon, Jonathan, Kenneth, Grace, Sarah, Morgan, Emma, Jack and Joshua. Great-Grandfather of Vernon. Ken was the dear brother of Kathleen (Lloyd) Abrahamson, Patricia (Jorge) Castro, the late Roland Lahner and Dennis (Sharon) Carter. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Above all Ken was most dedicated to his family and his loyal friends. His generosity and ability to “broker” the deal was unsurpassed. He taught us many life lessons and he will sadly missed by all who knew him best.

Visitation will be on Thursday November 16, 2017 from 3-9:00 PM at Salerno’s Rosedale Chapels, Roselle, with a funeral  mass on Friday at 10:00 AM at St. Peter Catholic Church, Itasca. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the DuPage Foundation for the Kimberly Lahner Memorial Scholarship 3000 Woodcreek Dr. Suite 310 Downers Grove, IL 60515-5408  The family also invites to visit the website and sign the guest book www.salernofuneralhomes.com.