Kenneth Robert Gandre, 73, died Monday, July 28, 2025, in Burlington, Iowa.
Born August 19, 1951, in Hollywood, Calif., he was the son of Leslie and Barbara Gamber Gandre.
Kenny worked as a licensed general contractor for over 35 years. Upon retiring, he later worked another five years driving buses for Trailways.
Kenny was the type of man that could light up a room with his personality. He was very intelligent, quick witted and always knew the right thing to say to keep a smile on your face. He was very spiritual and kindhearted. It seemed that God had a plan for Kenny - he often showed up at the right place at the right time to help others in need. Whether it was stopping a robbery in San Francisco or rescuing someone from the clutches of the ocean, he was there at several key points in stranger's lives. Kenny was very creative and enjoyed gardening, hiking, the ocean and peace and quiet. He tended to live in rural areas that were not crowded. You could find Kenny living among nature either at the beach, or on a mountaintop. He had a soft spot for animals and would use his skills to create safe spaces for rabbits, deer and birds in his yard. He was also very interested in history, nature and the natural world.
Kenny was one of a kind. His kindness and warmth will be missed tremendously, but his memory will be carried by those who loved him.
Kenny's family include his children, Johnelle Barr, and Blake Arce; Beneit Gandre and siblings, Carolyn (Charles Handelin) Gandre and Thomas (Laura) Gandre; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.
A remembrance of Kenny's life will be scheduled soon, and details will be published when they become available.
Please continue to keep his family in your thoughts during this difficult time.