Kenneth Edward Jelinek, age 83, departed this life on Monday, December 28, 2020 at his home in Alliance surrounded by his family. He was born April 6, 1937 in Alliance, Nebraska to Edward F. and Beulah (Rust) Jelinek. He was a 1954 graduate of Alliance High School and attended Chadron State College. He joined the Army Reserves and served six years. He was also a lifetime member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles.
He was united in marriage to Glenda Grigg on March 24, 1977 in Torrington, WY. Ken and Glenda made their home on the farm northwest of Alliance. He farmed with his father, Ed, and his sons for over 50 years. Ken enjoyed going to town for morning coffee with friends. Ken and Glenda loved Sunday drives and also extensive travel. The family took many trips. He loved spending time with his children participating in 4-H and county fairs. He also liked taking his children and grandchildren to fishing spots. After retirement, Ken enjoyed going to the Black Hills, where he and Glenda enjoyed many activities.
He is survived by his wife, Glenda and children Jim (Laurie) Jelinek, Krystal Gray, Kasandra Finley, Brian Jelinek, Darren (Christy) Jelinek, all of Alliance and Jan (Paul) Warner of Greeley, CO; twelve grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; and his sister, Marilyn (Ron) Petersen of Seattle, WA. He was preceded in death by his parents Ed and Beulah Jelinek.
Funeral services will be held Monday, January 4, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bates-Gould Chapel and simultaneously livestreamed on the Ken Jelinek funeral facebook page. Burial will be in the Alliance Cemetery with a gathering following at the Westside Event’s Center. Visitation with the family present will be at the funeral home on Sunday, January 3, 2021 from 2:00-4:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Kenneth’s name may be sent to St. Agnes Academy or Regional West Hospice.