Kenneth Ardel Yoder

June 8, 1927 – November 13, 2024

Kenneth Ardel Yoder was born on June 8, 1927, to Chris and Barbara, nee Troyer, Yoder in a farmhouse northwest of Kalona, Iowa. At the age of 11, Ken accepted the Lord at a Mennonite revival meeting, marking the beginning of a lifelong faith journey.

Ken graduated from Kalona High School in the spring of 1945 and was inducted into the U.S. Army in March 1946. He served in a medical supply battalion stationed in Manila, Philippines, supporting operations in the South Pacific.

After his military service, Ken moved to Goshen, Indiana, where he worked alongside his brother Lester and cousin Sanford at Goshen Farm's Dairy. It was in Goshen that Ken met Barbara Strycker, and they were married on December 17, 1950.

Ken pursued higher education at Goshen College (1948-1950) and the University of Iowa, where he earned his degree in June 1952. Shortly thereafter, he began his career with Price Waterhouse & Co. in Chicago, Illinois.

Ken's professional life was marked by diverse roles in accounting and management. He worked for Kawneer Co. in Niles, Michigan, and later joined Whirlpool Corporation, where he served in various capacities, including cost accountant, operations manager, and territory manager. He retired from Whirlpool in 1989 after 30 years of dedicated service but continued to work for Whirlpool in a consulting role for two additional years.

Over the years, Ken also worked for AT&T, two courier companies, and a trucking company. In retirement, he remained active, volunteering at Central DuPage Hospital, driving for Uber, and staying connected with his community.

Ken was deeply committed to his church, where he contributed in many ways: serving as treasurer, accounting for church finances, maintaining church grounds, and participating in recreational activities such as bowling and golf. His life was a testament to faith and service.

Ken is survived by his wife, Barbara, their children Craig Alan (born August 29, 1954) and Jan Carla (born February 10, 1959), and a legacy of hard work that continues to inspire all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, December 27, at 3:00 p.m.  Friends may visit with the family from 2:00 until 3:00, as well as after the service.

Private inurnment will be held at Wheaton Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Focus on the Family (https://www.focusonthefamily.com) or the BibleProject (https://bibleproject.com).

Finally home!