Cordell Ruth (Kranawetter) Kirn, 83, of Perryville, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 27, 2024. Born on October 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 the Perry County Saddle Club, the 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, MO, Valerie (Scott) Kirn-Duensing of Traverse City, MI, Brent (Lori) Kirn of Atlanta, GA, and Veronica Kirn (Martin Ray) of Cape Girardeau, MO; 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, IN, and her sisters, Matilda Luckey of Perryville and Nelda Arbeiter of Evansville, IN.
Cordell was preceded in death by her parents and 6 siblings.
