Kenneth Eugene Gillis

Jan. 26, 1936 - Oct. 11, 2024

Kenneth Eugene Gillis, known to friends and family simply as Ken, embarked on his final adventure on Oct. 11, 2024, at the age of 88. Born on Jan. 26, 1936, in the town of Centerville, Iowa, Ken’s journey led him near the beautiful mountains of Cody, Wyo., where he cast his last line into life’s great river.

A man who lived life in the fast lane, Ken’s love of drag racing was only matched by his knack for spinning a wrench as a mechanic, entrepreneur, and inventor. His businesses included custom racing engines, auto part stores, professional racing and mobile tune-ups. He built more than just businesses; he built a community where everyone was family, and every problem had a punchline. Ken’s spirit of laughter was as contagious as his love of hunting, fishing, and airplanes. His passion for life’s simple joys was a melody that will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew him.

Ken is survived by his sisters Virginia McElderry and Betty Jackson, sons Gary Gillis and Jeremiah Gillis, daughter Nancy Dupont, grandchildren David Gillis, Kaylene Widlund, Felicity Gillis, Christina Dupont and Nichol Dupont, along with many other extended family and friends.

As we bid farewell to Ken, we remember that he won the marathon of life, with flying colors and a pit crew of loved ones cheering him on every step of the way. May we all aim to rev our engines a little louder, cast our lines a little further, and love a little stronger, just as he did.

Condolences can be shared on Kenneth’s memorial page at www.BallardFH.com