Kenneth "Kenny" Wayne Ridgway, 80, of Athens, AL formerly of Batavia, IL passed away peacefully in his home on January 16, 2023, after a fierce battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born May 25, 1942, to William Guy Ridgway and Elsie Janavee (Leathers) Ridgway. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1962 until 1965 on the USS Altair. He married the love of his life, Carol, in June 1969. Kenny was an avid bowler and loved his Chicago Cubs and Chicago Bears. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 504 in Batavia, IL, and was an active member for many years at the VFW Post 1197 also in Batavia, IL. Kenny could be a quiet man but enjoyed getting together with his friends and family to share some beers, "Dad" jokes, and laughs over a game of cards.
Mr. Ridgway is survived by his cherished wife of 53 years, Carol (Bean) Ridgway; two daughters who adored him: Michelle Larsen (Jeff) of Streamwood, IL and Karen Conn (Jason) of Madison, AL; two adored granddaughters: Shelby Hill of Sevierville, TN and Olivia Conn of Madison, AL; two treasured great-grandchildren: Katherine Hancock and Colten Hancock, both of Sevierville, TN; many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
Mr. Ridgway is preceded in death by his parents; his beloved daughter, Jana Hill; and his four siblings: Joyce Vonhoff, Larry Ridgway, Darlene Surrett, and John Ridgway.
A memorial service will be held at a later date in Madison, AL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to JDRF; the American Cancer Society; or any Veterans' association.
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