Kenneth Joseph Gelhot Jr. passed away to be with our Lord on April 20th, 2025, at the age of 78. He was born on April 9th, 1947, to the late Kenneth Joseph Gelhot Sr. and Grace Eveyln Gelhot (nee Collins) in Saint Louis, Missouri. After attending Corpus Christi High School, Ken joined the Navy and served during the Vietnam War (1966 – 1970) as a radarman. After returning from the Service, Ken spent his life working in the paint and coatings industry as a chemist/field service.
Ken was preceded in death by his late brother, Gregory Gelhot and leaves behind his wife, Terry (nee Ponce) of 37 years, daughters Angela (Jason) and Stephanie (Daniel), his two granddaughters Madisyn (Hunter) and Ashlynn, great grandson Ryder, and brothers Emmett and Glennon. He was dear uncle and friend to many.
Whether it was fishing, hiking, or camping, Ken was an avid outdoorsman. But above all, he loved spending time with family and friends, always with a story to share.
Visitation and service to be held at Saint Thomas UCC (17842 Wild Horse Creek Road, Chesterfield, Missouri 63005) on Monday April 28th. Visitation 10:30 – 11:30; funeral service 11:30. Interment with full military honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, Ken requested memorials to: St. James Meramec Spring Park https://maramecspringpark.com/ or Missouri Department of Conservation https://mdc.mo.gov/
SERVICES: Visitation at St. Thomas United Church of Christ (17842 Wild Horse Creek Road 63005) on Monday, April 28 from 10:30 am. until Funeral Service time at 11:30 am. Interment at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
Terry, Angie, Jason, Stephanie and Daniel, Our hearts break for you. Ken was a very caring person. So full of energy! We always enjoyed seeing him on his daily walks around the neighborhood. Ken was so generous with his time at SJA, bar-b-ques, fish fries, Homecoming and with all the sports Stephanie played especially soccer. Ken will be missed by all who knew him. May God surround you with His love and Peace.
Had a lot of fun with Ken working the Saint Joan of Arc Flea Market and Fish Fries.
Rest in Peace, my friend.
I enjoyed Ken and talking with him. We shared many interests in our discussions. What a nice man.
Ken and Jesus both rose on Easter, almost as planned. Will miss him and love to his family.
Ken was one of the good ones – family man, outdoorsman, gardener, friend. I will miss swapping fish stories with Ken. My sincere sympathy to his entire family and to all who loved and knew him.
Terry, my condolences to you, Stephanie, and all of your families. May The Lord bless you and guide you in your time of need.