In Loving Memory of Kenneth David “Ken” Garst
February 20, 1952 – January 5, 2026

Kenneth David Garst, known to all as Ken, age 73, of Salina, Kansas, passed away on January 5, 2026. Born February 20, 1952, in Concordia, Kansas, he was the son of Alva and Ruby
Johnson.

A hardworking man with a wandering spirit, Ken spent most of his life behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler. He took great pride in his life as an “asphalt cowboy,” a career he maintained until nearly the age of 70. In his well-deserved retirement, Ken could usually be found in his favorite chair watching Westerns or tinkering in the garage, where he possessed the rare talent of being able to fix just about anything.

Ken was truly a “man’s man,” yet he possessed a legendary tenderness. He spent countless hours in the garage with his sons, teaching them the value of hard work, perseverance, and unconditional love—lessons that will serve as his enduring legacy. To his grandchildren, he was the ultimate “Papa.” His daughter lovingly dubbed him the “baby whisperer,” a title he earned through long evenings dancing in the kitchen with Clayton, Trinity, and Weston when they were small, singing “Waltzing Matilda” repeatedly with pure joy.

On January 19, 1980, Ken married the love of his life, Peggy, at the Methodist Church in Glasco, Kansas. They were just days away from celebrating 46 years of a beautiful, devoted marriage.

Ken was a selfless man who consistently put the needs of others above his own. He was deeply loved by his children and grandchildren and will be profoundly missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved son, Brian Garst.

He is survived by his wife, Peggy Garst; his children, Roseanna (Hans) Baker, Justin Garst, and Jared (Raimie) Garst; and his four sisters, Anna, Iva, Jeannie, and Heather. His memory lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Louisa Wagaman, Luke Baker, Clayton Garst, Trinity Garst, Brooklyn Garst, Wyatt Garst, and Weston Garst; his great-grandchildren, Emma and Emmit; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at a visitation held at the Ryan Mortuary, 137 N. 8th Street Salina, KS, on Sunday January 11, 2026 from 3pm-6pm.

Funeral services will be at the VFW in Glasco, Kansas on Monday, January 12, 2026 at 1pm. Burial service will follow in the Glasco City Cemetery. Refreshments will be provided back at the VFW after burial.

Donations can be mailed to 315 E. Republic Avenue Salina, Kansas in Ken and/or Peggy Garst name.