Kenneth J Hollingshead

Kenneth James Hollingshead, known to family and friends as “Indian,” “Chief,” and also “Mayor of Draper,” passed away on July 2, 2026, at the age of 80.

Ken was a man of strength, grit, craftsmanship, and unwavering devotion to his family. He was tough, hardworking, and never one to sit still. Whether he was building something with his hands, spending time in the mountains at a rendezvous, or cheering on his grandchildren, he lived life with purpose and took pride in everything he did.

Ken graduated from Granite High School in 1964 and was proud to have earned the rank of Eagle Scout. The values of hard work, self-reliance, and service that he learned early in life became the foundation of the man he would become.

Ken proudly served in the United States Army Reserve for seven years during the Vietnam War. The discipline, resilience, and work ethic he developed during those years stayed with him throughout his life.

He spent more than 30 years working for Utah Power & Light before taking an early retirement to devote himself to his welding and fabrication business, H&K Ranch Design. There wasn’t much Ken couldn’t build. If he couldn’t find the part he needed, he’d simply make it himself. His creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail were second to none. Whether he was working with steel, leather, wood, or just an idea in his head, he had a remarkable ability to create something that would last.

A cowboy at heart, Ken found his greatest joy outdoors and in the traditions he loved. He spent countless mornings duck hunting with his son and grandsons, conquered the Widow Maker Jeep climb year after year, and became a familiar face in the Mountain Men Rendezvous community.

There, Ken became known for the incredible handmade leather clothing he crafted entirely by hand. From creating his own patterns and cutting the leather to hand-punching every hole and stitching every piece together, his craftsmanship was unmatched. Many said his clothing fit “like a glove.” His canvas tent was always “fiddle tight,” exactly the way he believed it should be, and he took great pride in teaching his grandsons how to set up camp properly, sharpen their tomahawks, and appreciate the traditions that meant so much to him. Evenings often ended around a poker table playing Poker or Two Card Guts, where he earned a reputation as a vicious card shark among friends who became family.

Ken also loved bringing people together. His annual pig roasts became legendary among family and friends. Filled with horseshoes, volleyball, laughter, storytelling, and memories that only grew better with time, they weren’t just parties—they became traditions that everyone looked forward to. Those gatherings reflected exactly who Ken was: generous, hardworking, and happiest when the people he loved were together.

After selling his Rendezvous store, Indian’s Place, Ken wasn’t ready to stop sharing what he loved. Together with his daughter, Jodi, he started The Toy Shop at Park Silly Sunday Market, where he delighted in teaching children how to safely shoot handmade rubber band guns, crossbows, and bows and arrows. Watching kids learn, laugh, and gain confidence brought him just as much joy as building the toys themselves.

Above all else, Ken loved his family. He never missed an opportunity to support his children and grandchildren. Whether it was a football game, wrestling match, baseball game, school event, or any activity they were involved in, he was there. He was their biggest fan, always encouraging them to work hard and push themselves. His sayings became family mottos: “If the work’s not done, then why the hell are you walking?” “Put some hustle in your step.” “A dollar waiting on a dime.” And whenever one of the grandkids got hurt, he’d grin and remind them, “It’s a long ways from your heart.”

Ken is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Deb Hollingshead; his daughters, Jodi Frkovich (Tony) and Codi White (Adam); his son, Brett “Bubba” Hollingshead (Denise); Brandon Miller (Tracy), who was like a son to him; and many cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought him endless pride and joy. He is also survived by his beloved niece, Jori Hollingshead Parris (Ron), along with the many lifelong friends he made through the Mountain Men Rendezvous community.

Ken was previously married to Lezlie Elsen Aller, with whom he shared eight years of marriage and a family together.

He was preceded in death by his father, Stanley James Hollingshead; his mother, Betty June Hollingshead; and his brother, Howard James Hollingshead.

Ken’s legacy lives on through the family he loved, the skills he passed down, the values he instilled, and the countless memories shared by everyone fortunate enough to know him. He taught those around him the value of hard work, perseverance, craftsmanship, and showing up for the people you love. His stories will continue to be told around campfires, poker tables, hunting blinds, and family gatherings for generations to come.

The family sincerely appreciates the love, prayers, and support they have received during this difficult time.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Ken’s favorite place - his home and shop. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, enjoy good food, good company, and celebrate a life well lived in the place he loved most.