Kenneth Leroy Baldwin, Jr.

Kenneth Leroy Baldwin, Jr.

JERSEYVILLE - Kenneth Leroy Baldwin, Jr., 91, passed away at 5:28 p.m., Thursday, July 31, 2025 at his home in Jerseyville, Illinois.

Born in Alton on June 12, 1934, he was the son of Kenneth Leroy Baldwin, Sr. and Frances (Kelley) Baldwin and was raised in Wood River.

He proudly served his country in both the United States Army and Navy and was a veteran of the Korean War. On August 29, 1952, he married Wanda Whittington in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. Together, they built a life together, raising their two children in Godfrey. Wanda preceded him in death on April 28, 2020.

Kenneth began working at Laclede Steel in 1955 and retired as a foreman in 1989. After retirement, he and Wanda spent 20 years in Florida before living in Kentucky and eventually settling in Jerseyville.

Kenneth lived life with an adventurous and lighthearted spirit. In his younger years, he enjoyed water skiing and riding motorcycles, and later found joy in camping, golfing, and beachcombing along the Florida coast. He had a gift for making the most of every situation, a quiet pride in providing for his family, and a genuine appreciation for good company, so long as the spotlight stayed off him. He also served with honor as a member of the Jerseyville American Legion Post #492 Honor Guard.

He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Kena and John Zimmer of Brighton; four grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; and his dear friend, Jeannie Belchik of Jerseyville, who shared in his life and friendship for more than 40 years.

In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Kevin Lee Baldwin on April 20, 1997; and two sisters, Lena Guse and Janet Kirk.

Private interment was held at Upper Alton Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to the Jerseyville American Legion Post #492, in care of the Crawford Funeral Home who was entrusted with arrangements.

Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com.

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