Kenneth Kurlas

Ken was born in Covington, Kentucky in 1944. He was a graduate of Holmes High School, earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Kentucky, and honorably served his country in the United States Army Reserve. He went on to build a life centered on his family, friendships, community, and a deep love for UK basketball. Ken shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with his devoted and loving wife, Cheri Kurlas. Together, they built a life grounded in love, loyalty, and unwavering commitment - a true partnership that was an inspiration to all who knew them. They shared a love for the mountains and celebrated over 40 wedding anniversaries in the Smokeys.

Ken dedicated his entire professional career to working as a greeting card salesman for Gibson and American Greeting Cards, where he built lasting relationships and brought warmth and kindness to everyone he met. Personally, Ken had a deep love for bluegrass music, cherished traditions, and relished the opportunity to attend bucket list type events. Whether Oktoberfest in Munich, the Army Navy Game, Indy 500, The Masters, riding in Mardi Gras in NOLA, NCAA Regional Finals in Philadelphia in ’92, the Kentucky Derby, multiple SEC Tournaments, NCAA 1st Rounds, many Final Fours, including The National Championship in ’12.

Ken was most passionate about the Kentucky Basketball and all things UK sports. Known to some as Mr. Wildcat, he was a season ticket holder in Rupp since it opened in ’76. He rarely missed a home game always cheering on the Cats and his enthusiasm was contagious. During retirement Ken enjoyed being a member of the Committee of 101, supporting UK Athletics. He was a Kentucky Colonel and always proud to call the Commonwealth home.

Ken’s love for UK, was only surpassed by his love for his family. He was a devoted and dedicated supporter of his two son’s athletic pursuits, rarely if ever missing their games or the chance to root them on. He was a kind and caring man who loved taking it all in!

Known for his uplifting spirit, Ken truly never met a stranger. He had a remarkable ability to see the good in people and in life, always offering a smile, a kind word, or a helping hand. You often felt better simply after spending time him or sharing a conversation. Ken’s positivity and genuine warmth made him a wonderful friend to all who knew him.

Ken is survived by his sons, Jody D. Kurlas (Kate Kurlas) and Anthony S. Kurlas (Ginger Kurlas); his cherished grandchildren, Courtney J. Kurlas, Mimi P. Kurlas, Virginia S. Kurlas, and Brooke L. Kurlas; his sister Sandy Burch; his brother-in-law Bill Brian; and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews in the Brian, Burch, and Kurlas families. He was predeceased by his mother, Frances Ellen Kurlas (McClure); his brother, Pete Kurlas; his brother-in-law, Fred A. Burch; and his sister-in-law, Linda C. Brian. Ken’s family was the heart of his world, and nothing brought him greater joy than time spent with them.

Visitation will be held at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven on Friday, May 8th, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., and will resume on Saturday, May 9th, at 9:00 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at 10:00 a.m. Services will conclude with a graveside prayer at 11:00 a.m. at Resthaven Memorial Park.

Ken will be deeply missed, but his legacy of kindness, optimism, and love will live on in the hearts of his family and all who were fortunate enough to know him.