Robert K. ‘Ken’ McCool 1956-2024

Robert, affectionately known as Ken, was born Nov. 14, 1956, in Youngstown, a son of the late Rev. John G. McCool and Adis Elizabeth McCool, and was a lifelong area resident.

Ken was the true embodiment of strength and resilience. He faced life’s challenges with unwavering determination, earning him the heartfelt respect and admiration of all who had the privilege to know him. He was a role model and a hero. Ken was the epitome of what a father and husband should be, always putting his family first.

Ken was a U.S. Navy veteran and later provided for his family by driving a semi-truck. He could outline the atlas and all major highways before the days of Google Maps and proudly “park his semi on a dime.”

Ken found true joy in his passions. A lifelong drag racing enthusiast, he shared the thrill of the sport with his brothers, nephews, children and friends. Many hours were spent working on his beloved Mopars alongside his son. Weekends were dedicated to the excitement of Quaker City Raceway and cheering on his Pittsburgh Steelers.

Above all, Ken was a fighter. No matter the odds, he faced every challenge head-on, teaching his family and friends to never give up and to always persevere with courage and grace.

Ken is survived by his adoring wife, Jennifer Dee McCool; and their four beloved children, Robin (Justin) Bishop, Dionna (Jules) Gasior, Robert (Chelsie) McCool Jr. and Amanda “Little” (Steven) Niles; his brothers, Rick (Gwen) McCool and Sam McCool; and sisters, Linda Beach and Edith “Cookie” (Richard) McCullough. Ken was a proud grandfather to Jules Jr., Caiden, Addison, Gianna, Callum and Cole; and a delighted great-grandfather to Jules III.

Besides his parents, Ken was preceded in death by his brother, Jack McCool; sisters, Judy Pellegrine and Mary Ann Texter; and nephew, Ricky Arnold McCool II.

Ken now joins them in eternal rest. His unwavering devotion to his family, his remarkable work ethic and his selflessness made him the cornerstone of his family’s strength.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a celebration of Ken’s life with military honors will be held at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, Ken’s family suggests memorial contributions be made to The American Stroke Foundation in his honor, via https://americanstroke.org/donate/.

“Rest in Peace, Dad. You were truly the best of us.”

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to view and share this obituary and to send condolences to Ken’s family.

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