Kenneth R. Oltman

Kenneth R. Oltman Sr. 89, of Pekin died at 9:20 am Thursday, July 22, 2010 at Pekin Hospital. Kenneth was born August 2, 1920 in Pekin to Edward C and Carrie M. (Ross) Oltman. He married the love of his life, Rose Adcock on June 14, 1944 in Pekin. She died on August 13, 2003. Also preceding him in death were his parents, eight brothers, three sisters, and his son-in-law, Gary Anderton. Surviving are: one son, Ken (Marty) Oltman Jr. of Mendota, IL.; two daughters, Carol Anderton of Christopher, IL and Lori (Rob) Preston of Pekin; three grandsons, Cory (Cheryl) Oltman of Bloomington, Joe Anderton of Christopher, IL and Josh (Toni) Anderton of Pekin; five great grandchildren, Connor, Caley, Carson and Colby Oltman and Hudson Anderton; one sister, Georgia L. Utter of Pekin and one brother, Vincent (Deanna) Oltman of Pekin. Kenneth was a WW II veteran of the United States Army Airforce, 5th Airforce, 3rd Bomb Group, and 90th Squadron. He worked for Corn Products for 42 years retiring in 1982 in fire safety protection. He was a member of First Christian Church his entire life, Tazewell Historical Society, Pioneer Club. The Oltman name is synonymous with fast-pitch softball and baseball in town.Kenneth started out playing sandlot ball and continuing on with Pekin Park Summer League, PCHS Varsity Baseball, Pekin Merchants, First Christian Church, Pekin Greys, Si Reed, Hymbaugh Motors, Central Book and Toy Store, and the Caterpillar Diesels.Kenneth was inducted into the Illinois Amateur Softball Association hall of Fame in 1993.He retired from playing in 1969, but never from living.He continued supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their sports. He bowled for many years in a league at Roxy's and in the Brother's Bowling Tournaments in Peoria and was on the First Christian Dartball Team for many years. He was the sweetest, most positive man who loved his family, friends, and community.His big hugs, smile and 'fine and dandy where's my candy' will be truly missed.