Published on July 1, 2025 10:16 am
Last Updated on July 1, 2025 10:16 am
Kenneth Loren Albert, age 76, of Salem, Illinois, passed away at 12:04 pm, Saturday, June 28, 2025, at his home in rural Salem with his loving family by his side.
Kenneth was born on January 30, 1949, in Salem, Illinois the son of Loren and Emogene (Caldwell) Albert. He was united in marriage to Daisy McElyea on June 3, 1967, at the Givens Chapel Church in rural Alma and together they shared 58 years of marriage.
His professional life began as a Barber, where over the years he built lasting relationships with his clients, infusing his work with warmth and laughter. Kenneth later joined World Color Press in Salem, where he dedicated many years to his career. However, his heart always led him back to the barbering trade, where he found true fulfillment. He retired in 2009, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and humor that resonated with everyone who knew him.
Kenneth’s love extended beyond the barbershop and into the great outdoors. He was an avid coon hunter, reveling in nature’s beauty and the thrill of the hunt. His adventures in the wilderness seemed to fuel his spirit, and he cherished the memories made during those outings. Yet, above all these passions, Kenneth was a devoted family man. He nurtured and celebrated his family, showing through his actions just how much they meant to him. His heart was never more full than when surrounded by loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and the bond of kinship.
An enthusiast of antiques, Kenneth displayed an eye for unique finds, always on the lookout for an extraordinary bargain or a hidden gem to bring home. This passion for collecting mirrored his approach to life – an appreciation for the beauty in both the extraordinary and the mundane, the highlight of which he often found in the company of his family. He embarked on his journey through life with an ever-present twinkle in his eye and a mischievous sense of humor that made everyone around him smile. Kenneth’s playful spirit and penchant for joking brought joy to countless family gatherings and friendships, always reminding those he loved that laughter is one of life’s greatest treasures.
Music was another profound passion of Kenneth’s life. His innate ability to play nearly any instrument he picked up showcased his creative talent, and he often shared his love of music with family and friends alike. This artistic expression added a beautiful soundtrack to the memories he created with those around him.
Kenneth was also a proud member of the Kinmundy Christian Church, where he found community and faith, further enriching his life and the lives of those around him.
Kenneth is survived by his wife: Daisy Albert of Salem; children: Crystal (Robert) Pollard of Kinmundy, Kimberly (Aaron) Newman of Alma, Carrie (Frank) Addison of Salem; 10 grandchildren: Sarah Campbell, Cyle Pollard, Ashley Powell, Alex Hall, Gracie Newman, Jesika Newman, Sierra Newman, Kayla Newman, Chase Addison, Mylee Addison; 9 great-grandchildren; one sister: Susie Austin.
Kenneth was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Ray Albert, Larry Albert, Keith Albert, Wanda Davis, Martha Flaugher, Barbara Hoffman, Roger Albert.
Graveside funeral services to celebrate Kenneth’s life will be held at 2:00 pm Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at the Martin Cemetery, Alma, with Josh Conley officiating. Burial will follow the services. Everyone attending is asked to meet directly at the cemetery just prior to service time. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Kenneth’s memory to the American Cancer Society.
The McGriff Funeral Home in Kinmundy is honored to be entrusted with the family’s care and arrangements. To sign the guestbook online or share a memory or story of Kenneth, please visit www.mcgriffandtriplettfh.com.