Kenneth Gilliland (1938-2022)
Kenneth Lee “Kenny” Gilliland, 84, of Holton, passed away Thursday, Oct. 13, 2022 at The Pines in Holton, with his wife by his side. He was born Jan. 26, 1938 in Topeka, the son of Roy Albert and Stella Imogene (Tutt) Gilliland.
Kenny graduated from Netawaka High School in 1956. He served in the Army National Guard from 1956-1959. He was a member of Evangel United Methodist Church and Eagle’s Club, both in Holton.
In Kenny’s early years, he worked for Rocky’s Refrigeration, installing refrigeration units for multiple stores in Topeka and for Orkin Construction Company in Emporia. Kenny retired after 29 years in the electrical maintenance department at Menniger’s Hospital in Topeka.
On May 20, 1972, Kenny was united in marriage to Lydia Ellen Esser in Topeka. They shared more than 50 years of marriage.
Kenny enjoyed fishing and specifically hunting quail. He also took much joy in cutting firewood and clearing timber on his farm.
Ken is survived by his wife, Lydia, of the home; one brother, Keith Gilliland (Connie) of Holton; one niece, Joni White (Dennis); two nephews, Brad Gilliland (Michele) and Jeff Gilliland (Peggy); eight great-nieces and nephews; and 14 great-great-nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2022 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. Burial will follow at the Denison Cemetery. Family will greet friends one hour prior to service time.
Kenny will lie in state both Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022 and Monday, Oct. 17, 2022 from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Holton Community Hospital Home Health or The Pines, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.
