Kenneth Dale Wilson

Kenneth Dale Wilson, 85, aka “Dale”, “Kenny D” and “Tomato Man”, a cherished member of Georgetown, IL and to his family, passed away on March 16, 2026, at the VA Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. Born on February 3, 1941, in Alvin, Illinois, Kenneth lived a life marked by dedication, hard work, and a genuine affection for those around him.

Kenneth proudly served in the United States Army, demonstrating his commitment to his country with honor and courage. Following his military service, he devoted his professional life to education and skilled craftsmanship, working both as a teacher and a carpenter. His ability to instruct and build not only shaped the lives of many but also reflected his steadfast character and skill. After returning from his military service he Europe, he met the love of his life, Thelma Wilson and they spent 24 years together in union until her passing in 1990. Up until the very end of his life on Earth, he expressed his unconditional love and honor to her. He is now reunited with her in Heaven.

A man who liked people, Kenneth found joy in simple pleasures and shared these openly with his community. In his younger years, he spent a great deal of time walking in Georgetown to keep in shape and during those walks would strike up conversations with those within the community. He was an avid enthusiast of basketball, as well as classic television genres such as World War II history and Westerns. His passion extended outdoors, where he devoted much of his time to working on personal projects and nurturing his garden and taking care of his pets as he was both fond of his dogs and cats. He had a green thumb for growing his tomatoes, apples and peaches. His generosity in sharing the fruits of his labor with neighbors and family further illustrated his kindness and community-centered spirit.

The family wishes to extend a special thanks to Bev Green, Mark Drews, Paula Roberts and Teresa Blanton as they were instrumental in providing a caregiving role to Kenneth in his latter years. Also, the family extends a special thanks to the staff at the VA hospitals in Danville, IL. and Lexington, KY.

Kenneth’s family remembers him with love and respect. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Thelma Ellen (Blair) Wilson, his parents Maurice and Ruth (Green) Wilson, and his siblings Winifred Vogt, Kate Rothwell, Virginia Ferpotto, Harold Wilson, Roland Wilson, and Larry Wilson. Surviving Kenneth is his son Robert Wilson and Robert’s wife Stephanie from Winchester, KY, along with his grandson Joshua Long and Joshua’s wife Haley, also from Winchester, KY. He was also a proud great-grandfather to Benjamin, RaeLynn, and Carolina.

Visitation will be held on March 26, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Sunset Funeral Home & Cremation Center, located at 200 E West St in Georgetown, Illinois. Following the visitation, a funeral service will begin at 1:00 p.m. with graveside immediately after with military rights being conducted by Georgetown American Legion. Please join Kenneth's family in sharing pictures, videos, and memories on his tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com

Kenneth Dale Wilson’s life was one of service, both to his country and community. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and love that will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to know him. His memory will continue to inspire those who cherish him.