Kenneth P. Holmberg

Kenneth Paul Holmberg, 86, of Willmar, MN, formerly of St. Paul, MN, died peacefully on Sunday October 12, 2025.

Graveside service will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Ken was born on September 4, 1939 in St. Paul, MN to Paul and Bertha (Kath) Holmberg and raised in Maplewood, MN. Becoming a defining chapter in his life, Ken joined the United States Navy, proudly serving his country. He held a lifelong appreciation for veterans after his service and remained a loyal supporter of the V.A.

Following his military service, Ken worked for the railroad as a cook before finding his true calling in sales. A natural-born salesman, Ken had an entrepreneurial spirit and could sell just about anything; from porkchops to blue blockers, sweatshirts to kettle corn. He took pride in providing for his family and approached his work with energy, humor and heart.

Married to Mary Prokott for 25 years, together they adopted their children Janel and Daniel.

Later in life Ken purchased the home he was raised in in Maplewood, MN with his beloved life partner of 40 years, Garthie Donnelly. Proud of the fact that he was able to live in his childhood home, Ken and Garthie remodeled it together, making it their own with their treasured cast of feline fur-babies throughout the years.

Family was at the center of everything Ken did, and he adored his grandchildren deeply, building lasting and impactful memories for them. Known fondly as “Pepa” or “Peeps” by grandchildren and great-grandchildren alike, he will be remembered for his quick wit and playful sense of humor. As the family prankster, Ken was always equipped with a joke or a good-natured trick that always garnered a good chuckle.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Berth (Kath) Holmberg; and sons, Daniel Holmberg and Guy Sr. Donnelly. He is survived by his cherished life partner, Garthie Donnelly; sister, Grace (Gary) Schoonover; daughters, Janel (Mike) Anderson and Dawn Donnelly; grandchildren, Nicholas Anderson, Nathan Anderson, Guy Jr. (Callie) Donnelly and Tara Donnelly; great-grandchildren, Lucas Anderson, Mattison Anderson, Nick Jr. Anderson, Noah Anderson, Tennyson Donnelly and Sydalee Donnelly.

"Until we meet again, may God bless you as he has blessed me". - Elvis Presley

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