Kenneth Neil Iler Jr., lovingly referred to as Juno, departed this life on October 17, 2024, aged 63 years, 7 months, and 28 days. Born on February 19, 1961, in St. Louis, Missouri, he was the firstborn son to Evelyn Christina and Kenneth Neil Iler Sr. He was a warrior from the beginning, born six weeks early; his mother said he was always determined to do things his own way.
He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1979 and quickly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps (Oohrah). He completed boot camp at the Depot in San Diego, California. After boot camp, he was stationed in Olongapo, Philippines, and Okinawa, Japan, as a Field Radio Operator. He received an honorable discharge in 1983. He always stated it was his pleasure to have served his country.
On April 20, 1985, he was wed to Tamara Cheryl Samuel. This union brought Ken his pride and joy, Andrea Nicole. In the early 90s, Juno relocated to Winona, where he lived in love with the love of his life, Ruth Anna Cowen. During this time, he acquired her children as his own: Rebecca, Samantha, Jessica, and Jeffery. He was also “Ju-Ju” to Ruth’s many grandchildren.
Andi promoted her Daddy to “Papa” in 2006, and this became his favorite title. Nickolas and Addie were easily his two favorite people on Earth. He would have given them the moon had he not already given it to Andi.
Juno is preceded in death by his parents, Chris and Ken; two sisters, Terry and Diane; his lifelong partner of 30 years, Ruth Cowen; her daughter Becky; son-in-law Luke Kile; his special “brother” Loyd; 2 amazing aunts; Bessie and Fran, and all of his many uncles.
He leaves to mourn; his daughter Andrea, her children Nickolas and Addison, brother Tim and wife Teresa, sister Kristol and husband Gene. Numerous Nieces and Nephews. His Aunt Mary, many cousins who were all so special to him. Ruth’s children, Samantha, Jessica, and Jeffery, and her many grandchildren whom he loved as his own.
Juno enjoyed hard rock music, Cardinal baseball, and WWE wrestling. He was an award-winning dad joke teller with a great sense of humor. One of a kind guy, with a sieve of useless knowledge in that brain. He always knew the answer anytime he was asked a question. He enjoyed ruffling feathers, especially when it came to politics and Facebook. He was a man of many interests and talents, loved to read Stephen King, play chess, and research about space and historical events. He was a good cook, a great dad, and an even better Papa. He will be missed so much by those who loved him!
