Ken Gandolfo

(From Parker Mortuary)

Kenneth Paul “Ken” Gandolfo, age 64 of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 at home surrounded by family.

Ken was born January 13, 1957 in Batavia, Illinois, to the late Paul James and Helen (Blades) Gandolfo. Ken grew up in the Chicago area, graduating from Hinckley Big Rock High School in 1975. 

After high school Ken proudly served in the United States Navy for over eight years. Ken learned the trade of boiler technician/inspector while in the Navy, a career he continued after his navy service with Bureau Veritas for over 30 years.

Ken was an avid model train collector and enjoyed hunting with his bird dogs, Bobby, Girl and Sammy. He was a hard worker and very dedicated to his job and projects, including several he was very proud of at his own home. He loved to cook and enjoyed big meals with family. Ken had an amazing sense of humor and loved to make people laugh. He was always willing to help others and had a huge heart. Family was everything to Ken and he cherished the time spent and memories created with his family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents, Ken was preceded in death by his brother, Richard and sister, Connie.

Ken is lovingly survived by his spouse, Joni; daughters, Trisha Mertens and husband, Heath, Brandy Fohey; son, Cristofer Gandolfo; grandchildren; Reece, Kayla, Hannah, Ava, Louie, Addison, Mason, Keegan, Hazley; together with extended family and friends.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, November 13, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary Chapel with Pastor Joe Morris officiating. The family will receive friends for a time of visitation following the service at Parker Mortuary

Committal of ashes will take place at a later date at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary.