Kenneth Wayne Rowley

1947 - 2024

Kenneth Wayne Rowley

September 1, 1947 - October 19, 2024

Kenneth Wayne Rowley, 77 of Punta Gorda, FL, formerly of El Paso, IL passed away peacefully and pain free on October 19, 2024 with family by his side.

Kenny was born on September 1, 1947 in Bloomington, IL to Dorothy (Wilson) and Francis Rowley. He is survived by the love of his life of 48 years Gail (Smith), his 3 girls who he loved with all his heart; Stacey (Jamie) Whitwood of MN, Jacque (Ulysses) Celaya of AZ and Loni Rowley (Tommy Carty) of IL, 5 grandchildren, Tyler, Alek, Ryley, Brian, Bella, great grandson Brody and another on the way. He is also survived by his brother Ernie Rowley and sister Linda (Dave) McClure and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Larry who was for sure the first to greet him in heaven.

He is also preceded by so many great friends and many of whom were part of his racing teams.

He was a graduate of Normal Community High School. He enjoyed his time on the race tracks throughout the country. He was the 1973 track champion at Henry's Speedway in Boswell, IN and the 1974 USAC Stock Car Rookie of the Year and the Most Improved Driver in 1976. He was a 2 time track record holder at the Magic Mile in Du Quoin, IL. It's also the place where he and Gail met 50 years ago.

Kenny was a member of the Illinois Army National Guard and a route driver for U.S. Foods.

Kenny was a 15 1/2 year survivor of a double lung transplant and was very thankful of his donor and family. Please consider being an organ donor.

He and Gail enjoyed going to St. Louis Cardinals and Illini games, concerts, watching Gunsmoke and being with his dog Rosie who already misses him.

We are all so humbled by the outpouring of love and support. We are also very grateful for the stories and memories shared by many.

Kenny was the toughest guy that we've ever known and fought hard all of his life for his family.

A celebration of life will be held November 17th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the Davis Lodge at Lake Bloomington followed by food and drinks.

"Don't take any wooden nickels"

"Get your ducks in a row"

"Don't overbook"

But most importantly "It's no hill for a climber"

If you would like to donate in Kenny's honor, please consider www.checkeredflagfoundation.org.