Kenneth “Ken” Reed Grauerholz, 82, passed away October 24, 2025, at The University of Kansas, in Great Bend, Kansas. He was born August 27, 1943, in Kensington, to Reed & Mildred (Peterson) Grauerholz.
Ken moved to the Great Bend area in 1980, coming from Nebraska. He worked hard all his life. He was a truck driver for Massey Ferguson then, worked as a mechanic in the oilfield. He was a fan of WWE wrestling and football. He became a regular card player at the Senior Center.
Survivors include his son, Kenton Grauerholz and his wife Brittany of Great Bend, Kenneth Royce Cochran from Kansas City; adopted son, Carl Grauerholz and his wife Alisa of Ellis; daughters, Lynn Dietrich of Hays, Bella Dietrich of Ellsworth; sister, Wanda Snow of Agra; brother, Dean Grauerholz of Beloit; grandchildren, Elena Grauerholz, Kenton Grauerholz, Jr., Madison Grauerholz, Joseph Grauerholz, Wrylin Bell, Erica Mac, Nicoli Carpenter, MJ Ball, and Isiah Ball; one great grandchild; and significant other, Lori Kempinski of Great Bend. He was preceded in death by his parents, and brother, Howard Grauerholz.
Per Ken’s wishes, he has willed his body to further the education of others. A memorial service will be held at a later date.