Kenny Kociss

Kenny Joe Kociss

Age 77 and a lifelong resident of Gardner, passed away Monday January 20, 2014 at his home.

Born September 7, 1936 in Gardner, Kenneth Joseph was a son of the late John William, Sr. and Gladys Irene McGurk-Kociss. He was raised and educated in Gardner and worked for the US Government prior to gaining employment with the Joliet Stockyards. Most recently Kenny Joe worked as a custodian at Gardner South Wilmington High School and the Gardner Laundromat until his retirement. He was a former volunteer fireman with the Gardner Fire Department and truly enjoyed being out and about in Gardner. You could often find him having coffee at Casey's or at the Gardner Restaurant. Kenny Joe was a regular attendee at the Gardner Village Board meetings and was a recipient of an honorary key to the village. He will be remembered as a great Chicago Cubs and Bears fan.

Survivors include two brothers: James (Lynne) Kociss and Gary Kociss; sister-in-law Marilyn Kociss and brother-in-law Teddy Christensen, all of Gardner, and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as great nieces and great nephews.

Kenny Joe was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers: Glenn (Barb) Kociss and John Kociss and three sisters: Winona ("Boots") Phillips, Linda Christensen and Peggy Kociss.

Visitation and video tribute will be held on Wednesday January 22, 2014 between the hours of 5:00PM and 8:00PM at Reeves Funeral Home, 203 Liberty Street in Gardner. Funeral services will follow Thursday morning January 23rd at 10:00AM in the funeral home with Reverend Jan Chandler from Church of Hope officiating. Burial will be in Braceville-Gardner Cemetery and Kenny Joe's nephews will act as pallbearers.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Kenny Joe's memory to Church of Hope, 202 North Monroe Street, Gardner, Illinois 60424.

Friends may sign the online guest book or send private condolences to the family by logging onto: www.ReevesFuneral.com

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Gardner. (815/237-2526)