Kenneth Joseph Lichamer, age 76, of Cary, IL, passed away on August 17, 2025. He was born in Chicago, IL to Clifford Lichamer and Elsie (née Kvasa) Koutas.

Ken was raised in a Bohemian neighborhood on the west side of Chicago, before moving to Palatine during his teenage years. He graduated from Palatine High School, Class of 1967. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, where he was a crew chief of the F111A, more famously known as the “Aardvark,” while stationed at Nellis Air Force Base in Las Vegas, NV.

Following his service, Ken became a respected member of the Palatine business community for 40 years as the owner of Five Star Heating and A/C. His work was marked by integrity, dedication, and a strong commitment to those he served.

Faith played an important role throughout Ken’s life. As a devoted member of Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Cary, IL, he gave generously of his time and talents. He helped lead the parish GYM (God’s Yard Maintenance) program, dedicating countless hours to landscaping and groundskeeping. He also shared his love of music as a member of the men’s choir and was known for grilling steaks at parish retreats, where his fellowship and service touched many lives.

Ken will be deeply missed by his family, his friends, and the many communities he enriched with his generosity, kindness, and faithful spirit.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Elsie and Dean Koutas; father, Cliff Lichamer; sister, Rosemary Franko; and brother, Charles Koutas. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 52 years, Joan Lichamer; three daughters, Jodi Steiner of Palatine, Tammy (Joe) Jauch of Cary, and Wendy (Matt) LaPorte of Crystal Lake; his beloved grandchildren, Kyle, Daniel, Andrew, Katy, Emily, and Anna; and adored great-grandson, Wyatt. He is also survived by his siblings, Elaine Inkaya, Elias (Jeanne) Koutas, and Angie (Tony) Loera; and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial gathering will be from 4:00pm to 8:00pm, Sunday, August 24, 2025, and mass will be at 10:30am, Monday, August 25, 2025, at Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, 410 North First Street, Cary, IL 60013. Fr. Keith Romke will be officiating. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ken’s name to Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church or the GYM (God's Yard Maintenance).

Final arrangements entrusted to Kahle-Moore Funeral Home. For more information, call 847-639-3817.