Holian, Kenneth Francis, of Webster Groves, passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family on July 4, 2024. He is survived by his loving wife Carol (Cloud) of 65 years; their son Jeff (Jennifer), and daughters Jani Espey (Kevin) and Kathryn Howard (Mike). Cherished grandfather of Katie, Caroline, Joe, Audrey (Carson), Sam and Johnny; dear uncle and a loyal friend.
Ken was born on February 17, 1934 in Long Island, New York to Lillian and Francis Holian. In 1951 he left New York and joined the United States Navy and served aboard the USS Wiltsie during the Korean War. When Ken returned to the states he moved to St. Louis and attended Harris Stowe Teacher’s College where he met his wife Carol. Ken went on to graduate from the University of Illinois and was a St. Louis City policeman for a few years before moving his family to Webster Groves in 1965 and starting his long time career with Liberty Mutual. Upon retirement Ken found his dream job at Sugar Creek Golf Course working as a Marshall.
Ken was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved his years of coaching for the Webster Groves Baseball and Softball League, being a volunteer with the visually impaired ski classes at Hidden Valley through Delta Gamma and driving his grandchildren to school every day for 20 plus years. Ken enjoyed trips to the beach with family and friends and cheering on his grandchildren at all sporting events. His happiest times were when he was surrounded by family and friends.
A pillar of strength and a beacon of love, his absence leaves a void in our hearts. To commemorate his remarkable life and the memories we cherish, a visitation will be held at Kutis Funeral Home, 10151 Gravois Rd, on August 3 from 4 pm to 7 pm. We welcome all who knew him to join us in celebrating the life of a man who was loved deeply and will be missed.
Ken will be missed by all who knew him . He always had a smile , a funny story and was quick to laugh and was very welcoming and gracious. Our deepest and heartfelt sympathies to all those he left behind.. The Braunfelds
I would see a movie with Paul Newman, Jimmy Stewart, Sean Connery and would often think how much they reminded me of Ken. I almost think they had to have met Ken and they were copying him. He was a one of a kind Man who left a mark with many. I was lucky to have Mr Holian in my life as a friend, a mentor, and a suedo Uncle. So many wonderful memories of Ken
I’m first and best baseball coach. He was awesome.