Cordell Kirn

Cordell Ruth Kranawetter Kirn, 83, of Perryville passed away peacefully Monday, May 27, 2024.

Born Oct. 3, 1940, in Jacob, Illinois, to Benjamin and Frieda Stueve Kranawetter, Cordell’s life was one of love and passion. On May 3, 1960, she married Nelson Kirn, and together they celebrated 64 years of marriage.

Cordell was a teacher in early childhood education and had also found joy early in life as a cosmetologist, touching the lives of many in her community. Her vibrant spirit was evident through her involvement in Perry County Saddle Club, Art Guild (now Creative Arts), Chamber of Commerce and Immanuel Lutheran Church. She enjoyed needlepoint, arts and crafts, word searches, dancing and, especially, spoiling her grandchildren. Cordell’s heart was open to all creatures, and she had a special bond with animals.

She leaves behind her children, Kim Kirn (David George) of Clayton, Valerie (Scott) Kirn-Duensing of Traverse City, Michigan, Brent (Lori) Kirn of Atlanta and Veronica Kirn (Martin Ray) of Cape Girardeau; her grandchildren, Jessica Stilts, Ridge Kirn, Grace Duensing, Madison Duensing, Jeric George, Chase Kirn, Seth George and Briley Kirn; and three great-grandchildren, Elodie, Ames and Colette Stilts. She is also survived by her brother, Erwin Kranawetter of Evansville, Indiana, and her sisters, Matilda Luckey of Perryville and Nelda Arbeiter of Evansville.

Cordell was preceded in death by her parents and six siblings.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, June 2, at Ford and Young Funeral Home in Perryville, and from 9 to 11 a.m. Monday, June 3, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Perryville.

A funeral service, officiated by the Rev. Joseph Schlie, will follow at 11 a.m. Monday, June 3, at the church. Cordell will be laid to rest at Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery in Perryville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Perry County Senior Center, Aging Matters — www.agingmatters2u.com — and/or St. Elizabeth’s Adult Day Care Center of Ste. Genevieve — www.seadcc.com.

Cordell’s warmth, creativity and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of her family and friends.

Online condolences may be sent at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome.com.