Kenneth George Zietlow, age 93, a resident of Monarch Landing in Naperville, IL, died suddenly on Monday, October 24, 2022, at home. He was born July 1, 1929 in Chicago.

Ken was preceded in death by his beloved wife Geniece (nee Hill), and his dear daughter Karen Dawn Zietlow. He is survived by his children, Mark Lane Zietlow, Gay Lynn Zietlow Patton (Thomas Murray Patton); grandchildren Jamal Lamar Zietlow, Aaron Jared Patton (Christine Lynn Sansone Patton), Justin Daniel Patton (Amber Marie Curry Patton); and great grandson Kyan Justice Patton

Ken was a proud alma mater of Lane Tech High School in Chicago, and often repeated their motto, "Wherever you go, whatever you do, remember the honor of Lane." He became a master teacher, being named Illinois Biology Teacher of the Year on more than one occasion. During his long and dedicated career at East Leyden High School in Franklin Park, Illinois, he was an inspiration to many students, transmitting his passion for life, his wonder of all living things, and his belief in the importance of critical thinking. He constantly studied and invented ways to help his students better engage and learn. One of his successful inventions, a kit for teaching the basics of DNA structures, is still being sold to schools all over the United States. He contributed research to the field of entomology (the study of insects) during the discovery period of the little-known pseudoscorpion. His work is archived in the Chicago Museum of Natural History.

Ken and Geniece each came from challenging childhoods but vowed together to live a life of integrity and curiosity. They traveled much, with their young children, looking to witness and appreciate the social and bio-diversity in the United States. Later, Ken and Geniece happily retired to San Diego, CA and from there expanded their travels, experiencing all 50 states and many locations on all 7 continents.

A memorial will be held at Monarch Landing Retirement Community

Address: 2255 Monarch Dr, Naperville, IL

Date:  Thursday, November 3, 2022

Time:  2:00 PM

Memorial gifts in remembrance of Kenneth and Geniece Zietlow may be directed to The Alzheimer's Association.

Family and friends may sign a guest book at hultgrenfh.com . For more information, please call Hultgren Funeral Home at 630-668-0027.