MCCREE

Kenneth Lowell “Ken” McCree, 89, of Sparta, IL; born May 18, 1934 in Herrin, IL the son of Lowell and Marie (Aschoff) McCree; passed away Sunday, October 29, 2023 at home.

Ken went to Sparta High School and started working at World Color Press as soon as he graduated.  Even though Ken suffered from Polio at a young age, he still played sports in high school.  After his football career was over, the high school retired Ken’s jersey.  People remembered him in high school by the name of ‘blood and guts’.  He acquired the name from fighting through some of the toughest battles and being an outstanding athlete.  Ken enjoyed watching Cardinals baseball, the Kansas City Chiefs and University of Illinois sports.  He was also a lifelong farmer who showed registered Herefords.  Some of Ken’s other hobbies included jigsaw puzzles and reading books, which he would often do to let his mind escape.

He is survived by his loving wife – Nancy (Elkins) McCree to whom he married on June 13, 1970; six children – Jim McCree of Sparta, IL, Calvin McCree of Sparta, IL, Gary (Kay) McCree of Lincoln, IL, Kayla Kistner of Bethany, WV, David (Kyle) McCree of West Columbia, SC, and Melissa Williams of Russellville, AR; seventeen grandchildren; thirty-four great grandchildren; 5 great great grandchildren; one brother – Frank McCree of Sparta, IL; one sister – Martha Jean Harpst of Weldon, IL.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, two grandsons, two daughters-in-law, one son-in-law, and four siblings.

Memorial contributions may be made to the family.

Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.heilschuessler.com.

The Visitation will be held at Sparta Christian Church on Saturday, November 4, 2023 from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.  Memorial Services will begin at 4:00 p.m. with Pastor Clint Evans officiating.

Heil-Schuessler & Sinn Funeral Home in Sparta, IL is in charge of arrangements

1. Cindy Eggemeyer says:

   11/03/2023 at 6:41 am

   Please accept my sympathy & prayers, Ken was a special man & neighbor. I will always remember hearing his John Deere sputtering to make it up the hill & Duke following close behind. My Dad & Ken spent a lot of time farming. Hold your memories close …. God bless you all.

   Reply
2. Sandy Cole says:

   11/01/2023 at 1:41 am

   I’m so sorry for your loss. Ms Nancy & Mr Ken welcomed me into their home as part of their family many years ago & for that I’m extremely grateful.

   Reply
3. Jenna Lambeth says:

   10/31/2023 at 9:02 am

   My thoughts & prayers are with you, Kayla, Nikki, & with your whole family. May the Comforter bring peace & even joyous memories in this sad time.
   Condolences
   Jenna Lambeth

   Reply
   • Kayla Kistner says:

     10/31/2023 at 10:12 pm

     Thank you

     Reply
     • Alan and Paulette Ashbrook says:

       11/03/2023 at 11:53 am

       Nancy and family, Alan and I are so sorry to hear this news. Know you all have our sympathy. Praying for your comfort.

       Reply
4. Wendy Bonnette says:

   10/31/2023 at 7:29 am

   Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire McCree family as you grieve the loss of your family member.

   Reply