Kenneth Earl Stoner
March 30, 1940 ~ March 10, 2022
Kenneth Earl Stoner, 81, of Princeton passed away peacefully at Javon Bea Hospital in Rockford on March 10 with his wife and closest friend by his side.
He was born on March 30, 1940 to Stephen E. Stoner and Mildred L. (Linder) Stoner.
He was a Wyanet High School graduate of 1958 and played basketball (1956-1958) making the top 10 all time scoring leaders list with 908.
From 1962-1968 he served in the Air National Guard and was an airbrush bench artist for Josten's in Princeton from 1959-1965. He then started his own business on West Peru Street. In winter months while getting established, he and several employees throughout the years restored and painted antique and unique vehicles. He was in business- self-employed for 52 years, retiring in 2017.
He greatly enjoyed creating logo's for people and building one-off signs. He also took pride in hand lettering anything and pinstriping vehicles. Some of his fondest memories were working with young Eagle Scouts on their local projects.
He loved the outdoors, studying plants and flora, landscaping, building furniture, and travelling. His greatest passion was learning to work with different woods, carving several carousel horses and creating numerous carvings throughout his home. Nothing went to waste, scrapes were turned into birdhouses.
He married his wife Gail (Clausen) on October 13, 1971 in Bull Shoals, Arkansas. They had a very close and loving 40 years.
He is survived by his wife, one aunt, several cousins and numerous nieces and nephews.
Cremation rites were accorded. Per his wishes there will be no formal funeral. He will join the rest of his family at Oakland Cemetery in Princeton. Please, no gifts or flowers. If you feel a need, memorials may be directed to your choice, church or animal shelter.
There will be a casual open house celebration of life on his birthday, March 30, 2022 at Ye Olde Underground Inn from 5:00-7:00 p.m. All are welcome whose lives he touched. Online condolences may be left at www.grant-johnsonfh.com.
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We are deeply saddened to hear of Ken’s passing. He was a sweet, kind, friendly , talented and giving man who truly loved his wife and enjoyed life. RIP Ken. You will be missed.