Kenneth J. Brumleve

Kenneth J. Brumleve, 79, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2023, surrounded by family, after a valiant battle with a sudden, life-threatening illness.

He was born on February 25, 1944, in Mattoon, Illinois, to Sylvester and Rachel Brumleve.

Ken’s quick-wit and playful sense of humor made him incredibly funny, with the ability to make anyone laugh. His charming, laid-back nature could quickly put others at ease. Ken was a fascinating storyteller who could captivate an audience with his humor, intellect, and wise perspective on life. Times spent with him were never boring. Either you’d be laughing with him or learning something useful from him. Ken was always acquiring new information and thrived on problem solving, his forward thinking served him well throughout his career, also keeping him sharp as he aged.

In his educational pursuits, Ken received his early education in Mattoon and went on to attend Eastern Illinois University. He later graduated from the University of Illinois with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Throughout his career, Ken had a successful journey. He spent 13 years in sales and sales management with Westinghouse Electric Corporation, where he received two prestigious President's Awards for his dedication to excellence. He then served as VP of Marketing for Semikron Intl Inc. for two years before establishing his own manufacturers' representative firm, Eva-Tec Marketing. In 1987, he founded Jenesco, Inc., a pioneering company manufacturing and specializing in its Jenesco brand ozone generators. It was Ken’s passion for innovation and his tireless dedication to excellence, making them a leader in the industry, while at the same time creating his legacy. Ken’s beloved daughter, Eva Brumleve, his successor, steps up to her new role of President of Jenesco, Inc. while in her 26th year with the company.

Outside of work, Ken had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed travelling. Throughout his lifetime he visited many countries around the globe. He also loved nature and being outdoors, including in & on the water. Ken was an avid golfer, a skilled vegetable gardener and had a passion for deer hunting. One of his notable accomplishments was the construction of an authentic, traditional log cabin, which he built by hand using antique tools. His labor of love was even featured in the Pittsburgh Press.

Ken is survived by his wife, Margie Amor Brumleve, his daughter, Eva Brumleve, his sister, Sylvia Schmitt, many beloved nieces & nephews, cherished friends and devoted Dog, Molly.

He was preceded in death by his beloved siblings Leila Parker, Rita Stickel, and Tom Brumleve.

NEW HAMPSHIRE SERVICES

Thursday November 16, 2023 @ Smith & Heald Funeral Home Milford, NH

Visiting hours from 12pm- 2pm

Funeral service is at 2 pm

Followed by a reception & celebration at the Milford VFW Post 4368 (Upstairs)

ILLINOIS SERVICES:

A funeral service in Ken's honor will be held Saturday December 09, 2023

Starting at 10:30am

Funeral mass at the Parish Hall

Graveside burial service at Calvary Cemetery.

The Knights of Columbus will graciously host a reception immediately after the burial.

In memory of Ken, the family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Ken's memory to:

AMERICAN RED CROSS

1-800-HELP NOW

www.redcross.org

Please join us in celebrating the remarkable life of Ken Brumleve, a man who brought laughter, wisdom, and compassion to all those who knew him. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us.