For the first time in many years the Woodstock Blue Streaks have opened the season with 2 consecutive wins. Week 1 saw a blow-out win against North La…
September 5, 2025
Dr. Kenneth Gardner, 68, Woodstock, died Thursday, Aug. 15, 2013, in Woodstock.
He was born Dec. 16, 1944, in Decatur to Lewis and Oma Gardner.
He graduated from Illinois State University in 1967 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. He received his master’s and doctorate degrees from Northern Illinois University.
He was a junior high and high school science teacher in Woodstock School District 200 for 35 years.
He will be remembered for his passion for science and education and for his dedication to his students.
He also was a loving husband, father and friend. He enjoyed traveling, reading, cheering for the Chicago Cubs, golfing and learning. In his retirement years, he spent time as a professor at George Williams College of Aurora University and as an educational outreach consultant at Yerkes Observatory.
Survivors include his wife of 46 years, Carol; a daughter, Katrina (Marc) McLaughlin; and a granddaughter, Cailin.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
An open house celebration of his life will take place from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 8, at Yerkes Observatory, 373 W. Geneva St., Williams Bay, Wis.
Donations in his name can be sent to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at donate.lls.org/lls/donate or to University of Chicago Yerkes Observatory, 373 W. Geneva St., Williams Bay, WI 53191. Donations to Yerkes will go toward the creation of a FabLab.
