Kenneth George Olthoff

Kenneth George Olthoff, age 57, of Linthicum, MD, passed away suddenly Sunday, October 15, 2017. Ken was born November 18, 1957 to Helen and George Olthoff in Harvey, IL. He is survived by his mother, Helen Olthoff, a brother Jack (Susan) Olthoff, and numerous cousins and friends who will miss him. Ken had a wide variety of interests which he shared with his friends and family. Among those interests was riding his recumbent bike both in Illinois and Maryland. He loved taking excursions along the many trails throughout the south area of Cook County and Northwest Indiana, including one accomplishment he made this trip home from Thornton, IL to Michiana Shores, IN to visit a place he enjoyed called Stop 50 Pizza. After graduating from Purdue University Calumet Campus (now known as Purdue Northwest) he relocated to the east coast after being offered a position with the National Security Agency. During his 30+ years with that organization Ken had an opportunity to participate in programs that would improve security and impact the lives of individuals. Ken was part of an extensive group of people that share a love for what would become known as cybersecurity. He also leaves behind an impressive collection of influential publications and patents on that subject. Ken had a full life outside of his professional field which included an affiliation with Harundale Presbyterian Church where he could be seen operating the sound and video system. He was an early member of the Professional Disc Golf Association, sharing that with his brother. Ken was involved with various theater groups in the Maryland area, including Rapid Lemon Productions. Visitation will be Monday, October 23, 2017 from 11:00 am until the time of the funeral service at 1:30 pm at Smits, DeYoung-Vroegh Funeral Home, 649 E. 162nd St. (Rt.6/159th St.), South Holland, IL with the Rev. Diane Maodush-Pitzer officiating. Interment will be at Washington Memory Gardens, Homewood, IL. Memorial contributions may be given to the American Heart Association. For further info please contact 708-333-7000.