Kenneth Lee “Kenny” Gilliland, 84, of Holton, KS, passed away Thursday, October 13, 2022 at The Pines in Holton, with his wife by his side. He was born January 26, 1938 in Topeka, KS, 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, KS. They shared over 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; 1 brother, Keith Gilliland (Connie) of Holton, KS; 1 niece Joni White (Dennis); 2 nephews Brad Gilliland (Michele) and Jeff Gilliland ( Peggy); 8 great-nieces & nephews and 14 great-great-nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service will be 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, October 18, 2022 at the 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, October 16, 2022 and Monday, October 17, 2022 from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Holton Community Hospital Home Health or The Pines c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com.