Kenneth “Ken” Daniel Boivin, 78, a beloved husband and father, decorated Vietnam War veteran, and dedicated educator, passed away on the early morning of May 29.
Ken was born on April 2, 1946, the cherished son of Leon and Margaret Boivin. On January 20, 1973, he married the love of his life, Judith Kulinski. The couple shared a memorable first date at McDonald's and cutely referred to each other as Frenchy and French Fry.
Ken was a proud and brave soldier, having served 21 years of active duty in the U.S. Army. Rising to the rank of Master Sergeant, he distinguished himself through his exceptional three year service during the Vietnam War. His valor and dedication were recognized with numerous honors, including the prestigious Bronze Star, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, five combat silver battle stars, and several other medals such as Presidential and Unit Citations.
After retiring from the military, Ken continued to serve his country and community by teaching JROTC in Chicago high schools for 20 years, profoundly impacting the lives of countless students. His commitment to mentoring and shaping the lives of young people was a testament to his enduring spirit and dedication to service. He was also an active member at both the Elgin and Huntley American Legions. He enjoyed volunteering on Sundays as the bingo caller in Elgin.
He was a devoted husband, father, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his children, Tina Boivin and Chad (Diana) Boivin, as well as his grand furbabies. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Judith, his daughter, Wendy, his seven brothers, and two sisters.
Ken will be remembered not only for his military accolades and professional accomplishments but also for his kindness, strength, generosity, and unwavering dedication to his family. Ken's legacy of bravery, leadership, and compassion will forever be cherished. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched throughout his remarkable journey. Rest in peace, Ken. Your life of dedication and love will never be forgotten.
A visitation will be held on Monday, June 3, 2024 from 4-7pm with a service at 7pm at DeFiore Funeral Home-10763 Dundee Road in Huntley, where friends and family will gather to honor and celebrate Ken's life. Burial will be at Fort Sheridan Cemetery on June 4, 2024 at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers Ken would have encouraged everyone to go out and buy a lottery ticket for yourself.
For further information please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com
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I am so sorry for your loss my condolences to you and your family
Our deepest condolences to you and your family. Sending prayers and love.
So sorry for your loss. He was a great guy
We are so very sorry for your loss. I will always remember him calling numbers for bingo. He was such a kind and caring soul. He is with the love of his life now. Sending warm hugs to his children.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Ken was my dear friend & mentor, he taught me how to call bingo on Sundays. He was a kind & generous man always willing to go that extra mile to help anyone out. Ken will be so sorely missed by all of us Amer Legion members and bingo players alike. My heart is broken at the lose of my dear friend. I am so saddened by our loss. We love you Ken, I know God has a special place for such a caring person.
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
So sorry for your loss. My thought and prayers for you and the family.
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time
I'm sorry for your loss. I'm praying for you & your family.
I'm so sorry for your loss. Know he is in a better place and out of any pain.
Our deepest condolences to the family. Ken was a wonderful friend and will be missed at the American Legion.
Best bingo caller I had. Made my job easier doing other tasks. Will be surly missed . “God rest your soul “
I had the honor of meeting Ken at the Anerican legion in Elgin. I had the honor of seeing him 5 months ago at Sherman hospital while taking my mom to heart dr, he was also there.we talked for 1 hour to catch up and I'm so grateful to have that visit. He will be sorely missed by me and my mom,Martha, also my significant other Norm Bellows. Our prayers for his family at this time from all of us
Myself and my wife want to express our most heartfelt condolences at this time of loss and grief. Healing prayers, love and long distance hugs from the 716 Boivins
Sending you strength today and peace in all the days ahead
Ken you will be truly missed , Crystal the Diet pepsi girl here's one for you ♥️
Ken was a sweet, kind, and humble person.I'm so Happy to have known him He will truly be missed, conversations and hugs that were had will also be missed, To his family Sorry for you loss.