Ken Gestel's Obituary
Kenneth F. Gestel, 69, of Unionville, MO passed away on October 28, 2025, at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics following a recent diagnosis of Leukemia and aggressive Melanoma.
Ken Gestel was born in Joliet, IL on June 2, 1956, the youngest son of Joe and Mildred (Hoffman) Gestel. Ken had a stoic work ethic, beginning at the tender age of seven and being mentored by his uncle Ken, was an assistant to filling candy vending machines throughout the Chicago area. Ken was a Boy Scout and lived by the BSA oath, law, and motto being always prepared, helpful, loyal, trustworthy, kind, courteous, friendly, and reverent. After graduating from Joliet Central High School, Ken began his career in energy. He worked at the nearby coal powered energy plant beginning by shoveling coal. He never missed an opportunity to advance his career and became plant manager after a few years.
Ken moved west to California and was employed by Destec managing five power plants in the Bakerfield's area. Bakersfield is where he met the love of his life Renee. Ken and Renee married on July 14, 2004, in Cuesta By the Sea, California in a beach side wedding. Because of his dedication to his work ethic Ken was selected to move to Anchorage, Alaska to manage the largest power plant in the state. Ken continued to advance in his career, moving to several areas along the east coast to upstart and manage numerous power plants. Ken's heart belonged in the midwest. Ken and Renee bought property in Livonia, MO in 2007 with the vision to build a home and improve the land. Ken and Renee moved into their Livonia home in 2014.
Ken's life was shaped by hard work, loyalty, and a love of the outdoors. He enjoyed playing golf at the Unionville Golf Club and traveling worldwide with Renee. Ken was always on the lookout for rare and unique fountain pens to add to his fabulous collection. He used the pens to faithfully journal adventures he took and plans for the future. Ken was an avid outdoorsman. Working on his property was a joy and labor of love. Ken fell trees, built trails, and rejuvenated the lakes on his property. Ken was always the first to help his neighbors.
Ken is survived by his loving wife Renee of 21 years, brother, Mel (Rita) Sayre of Sarasota, FL., brother-in-laws Rick (Gail) Hanson of Iowa City, IA; Roger Hanson of Richmond, VA, and Ron Hanson of Sergeant Bluff, IA. His surviving sister-in-laws are Roxanne Gould (Steve) of Dakota Dunes, SD and Rhonda (Dan) Waller of Pompano Beach, FL. Ken is survived by many nieces and nephews.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Mildred Gestel, a sister Dee Schaubel and brother in law, Ken Schaubel.
Ken will be deeply missed and forever cherished in our hearts. May he now rest in peace.
In Lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Renee, which will be determined at a later date.
The visitation will be held at Thomas Funeral Home 709 S. 27th St., Unionville, MO 63565 on Friday, October 31, 2025, from 3:00pm – 6:00pm.
A graveside service will be held at Memorial Park Cemetery in Sioux City, IA on Monday November 3, 2025, at noon.
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