John J. Kilian

With heavy hearts, we gather to commemorate and celebrate the life of John Joseph Kilian. John was a loving father, grandpa, uncle, brother, friend and was loved by so many. He departed this world peacefully on May 5, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas. He was 88 years old and had a positive spirit till the end. John was a man of strength, kindness and generosity with an unwavering dedication to his family.

Born in Fort Scott, Kansas to Frederick R. and Mary Kilian, John grew up on the farm alongside his older brother Frederick A. Kilian, where he attended Fort Scott high school before dedicating himself to a lifelong career as an ironworker. John made his career at Belger Cartage, where he was highly respected for his skills. His craftsmanship and dedication were evident in his work. But for his friends and family, he spent countless hours welding up handrails, decorative ironworks, grab bars and swings … anything we needed. John was a jack of all trades and he could do almost anything.

In Fort Scott John met and married the love of his life Gail M. Singmaster, on June 19, 1957, and they were married for 67 years. A faithful member of Saint Anne’s Catholic Church and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, John lived his life guided by his faith and a dedication to helping others. His greatest joy was his family.

John is preceded in death by his parents, Frederick R. and Mary Kilian.

He is survived by his wife, Gail Kilian; his sons, Mike (Brenda) Kilian and Patrick -(Harrison) Kilian-White; his cherished grandchildren, Joshua Kilian, Zachary Kilian - (Hideo Takemoto), Bryce (Eve) Kilian and Bailey Kilian - (Cash Pechin); and his great-grandchildren, Austynn Kilian, Ty Kilian, Parri Kilian-White and his brother Frederick A. Kilian.

There will be a Celebration of Life, Monday, May 12, 2025, 1-3 pm at Terradyne Country Club, 1400 Terradyne St, Andover, KS 67002 in the Turnberry room.