Kenneth Thomason Heyen, 91 of Broadlands passed away at 12:59PM, Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at The Haven in Tuscola.

Private graveside services will be held.  Freese Funeral Home, Tolono is assisting with arrangements.

Mr. Heyen was born Nov 15, 1934 in Petersburg, IL, a son to Julius and Ruby Thomason Heyen.  He married Awanda Lee Limkeman on Sept 20, 1958 in Sutter, IL.  She preceded him in death on August 31, 2023.

Surviving are two sons; Kevin (Susan) and Kendall (Brenda), a daughter; Alisa (Tim) grandchildren; Brandon (Hannah), Brittany, Makenzie (Alexis), Alexander and Maddison, two great-grandchildren; Cecelia Kay and Lucca and three step-great-grandchildren; Dean, Liam, and Ellie.

Mr. Heyen graduated from Ipava High School, then graduated from Western Illinois University with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Music Education.  While receiving his master’s degree with served in the U.S. Army Reserves.  He was employed at Unit 7 Schools as the band and music teacher from 1970 to 1991.  He grew up on the family farm in Carthage, IL, where he and his children would go back in the summers and help with planting and harvesting the crops.  He was an avid Illini sports fan.  He also enjoyed watching his children’s and then his grandchildren’s activities, playing the organ and accordion, and going to tractor pulls, he especially enjoyed the Allis-Chalmers tractors.

The family would like to thank the staff at Haven of Tuscola for their kindness and compassion.  Over the years, they became more than just Ken’s caregivers; they became family.  Their commitment to treating him with love, dignity, and respect will never be forgotten.

Memorials may be made to Unity Music Boosters at PO Box 1063, Tolono, Il 61880.