He was born on December 6, 1946, in Sterling, Illinois, to George and Jean (Gillman) Dudley, Sr.
He was the second oldest of four brothers, a crew of rough-and-tumble boys who grew up sharing the adventures and mischief of childhood in the 1950s and 1960s. Ken enjoyed tending to plants and fish, watching the Sci-Fi Channel, and spending time in nature. He had a love for landscaping and treasured the time he shared with family and friends. Known for his creativity and sense of humor, he was always building something unusual, including custom couches he crafted from converted car trunks—just one example of his many unique creations.
He is survived by his grandchildren: Jessica Walker; Alisha Walker (Levi Lauritzen); Brenna (Adam) Wyckstandt; Nick Dudley; and Harley Dudley. His sons: Kenneth Dudley, Jr., and Michael Dudley; One son-in-law: Michael Pearce; Great-grandchildren: Michael Pearce, Hailey Walker, Devin Lauritzen, and Riley Sheley.
One brother: George (Beth) Dudley, Jr.; One sister-in-law: Peggy Dudley.
He is also survived by nieces and nephews: Tami (Jeff) Johnson, Lori Dudley, Timothy (Alicia) Dudley, Letisha Long, Dustin Dudley, Austin Deadmond, Danielle Dudley, and Courtney Moore; as well as special friends and family, Eric “Swany” Swanson, Conan Swanson, and great-niece Chandra Meier, along with several other great-nieces and nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews, and estranged extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Tina Jean Dudley; two brothers, James Dudley, Sr., and Albert Dudley; and one nephew, James Dudley, Jr.
Cremation rites have been accorded. Arrangements were completed by the McDonald Funeral Home in Rock Falls. Celebration of life “party” will be established at a later date.
