Staunton Star - Times - Published in the Interest of the Staunton Community for Over 143 Years

Adlene Estelle Kinnikin, 95, of Worden and Staunton, Ill., died on Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022, with her only child by her side. She was born on Sept. 3, 1927, the daughter of the late Frank and Rosalie (Close) Berg. She married Robert Kinnikin on Jan. 20, 1951, in Carlinville, and he preceded her in death on Aug. 26, 1999.

She is survived by her son, Dennis "Skinny" and his wife, Dawn of East Alton; two grandsons, Randall of Alton, Robert (Jessica) of Wood River; and her older sister, Violet Rood of Edwardsville. Her very best friend was Doris Thomas of Staunton.

At the age of 21, after graduating beauty college, she opened her own salon in Staunton. After marrying, she set up shop in their home in Worden before moving it into a building in town. She also regularly styled hair for Williamson Funeral home. When questioned about that clientele, she replied, "No one ever complains." She was extremely creative and an excellent seamstress. Her pieces were finished so finely that they could actually be worn inside out. She was a deft hand quilter and left behind over 30 pieced quilts not including the ones she prepared for her inevitable great-grandchildren.

A private celebration of her life will be held later.

Memorials are suggested to 5A's (no kill) Animal Shelter, 4530 N. Alby Road, Godfrey, IL 62035. Condolences may be left online at http://www.williamsonfh.com. Williamson Funeral Home in Staunton is in charge of arrangements.