Kenneth Gould Greenlaw, Jr.

Kenneth Gould Greenlaw, Jr. entered into his eternal rest on August 26, 2023. He was born on November 18, 1936, in Glendale, California. Most loving husband of Carolyn Dearing Greenlaw, brother of William Greenlaw (Jane) and the late Mary Ford (Herman), Brother-in-law of Dorothy Maruska. Dear father of Ken III; Kirstin, Kevin (Marjukka) and Ian Greenlaw and beloved dad to Cheryl Hoffmeyer (Russell) and Jeffrey Eshing (Barbara).  Most loved Grandpa of Carolyn Bast (Ken), Greg Boskamp (Caitlyn), Tim Eshing, John Boskamp (Amanda), Erin Chrismer (J.R) Lauren Peppers (Jake), Gillian, Lusineh, Evert and Paula Greenlaw. Ken was also blessed by the love of his nine Great Grandchildren, as well as several nieces, nephews and close friends.

Ken was the epitome of a loving husband and family man. He was most happy when his family was gathered around him and a Grand or Great Grand baby was on his lap. He never missed an opportunity to tell each of them how much he loved them and how proud he was of them.

His love of travel led Carolyn and Ken to travel the world together, by land, sky and sea. He always had a smile on his face and a twinkle in his eye.  

Ken’s love of music and choral conducting were renowned. He was the Director and Conductor of the Missouri Choral Society (aka St. Charles Choral Society) for 51 years before the pandemic snatched that away. He prepared and conducted hundreds of choral concerts performing major works, masses, and music of every genre. His singers were his other family and he loved them as much as they loved him. His passion for travel extended to countless international concert tours – From Poland to the Soviet Union, South America, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, many trips throughout Europe, British Isles and more, too numerous to mention.

Ken was the Director of Music at several churches and he loved to prepare his choirs – adults and children alike, to enhance worship for the glory of God. 

Ken’s Celebration of Life and Interment will be on Saturday, September 9, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.

The Church of St. Michael & St. George

6345 Wydown Blvd.

Saint Louis, Missouri 63105

Reception in The Great Hall immediately following.

 

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to:

The Church of St. Michael & St. George

P.O. Box 11887

Saint Louis, Missouri 63105

6 Comments

  1. Jeneanne Niggemeier on August 31, 2023 at 10:18 am

    Some of the most satisfying and happiest times of my life was singing in the Choral Society under the leadership of Dr. Ken Greenlaw for 43 years. God Bless you and RIP dear Ken.



  2. Jan Lindner on August 31, 2023 at 1:29 pm

    Being part of Ken’s chorus and life has enriched my life beyond measure. Besides being an accomplished conductor, his humor was clever and witty and he enjoyed life. I am forever grateful for being part of his choral family and having learned so much from him. He has opened up so many experiences with all of the travels and concerts performed around the world. He will be so missed.



  3. Debbi Brader on September 1, 2023 at 10:08 am

    I was a student of Dr. Greenlaw’s at Lindenwood. Our Madrigal group did our January study in Europe going to 10 cities and seven countries. I can honestly say that trip was one of the highlights of my life. Dr. Greenlaw was a talented musician and a kind and caring man. Sending prayers for his family.



  4. Barbara Kemery on September 1, 2023 at 7:51 pm

    I am very sorry to learn of Ken’s death. I learned a lot from him when I sang with the Missouri Choral Society several years ago. I extend my condolences to his family and friends.



  5. Herman Lancaster on September 8, 2023 at 7:36 pm

    ! He made my heart sing !



  6. Nancy Durajczyk on December 25, 2024 at 2:00 pm

    Now many years after I sang with the Missouri Choral Society, it is now 2024 and as I listen to the Christmas songs, I hearken back to how fortunate I was to be in this choir. Ken will be greatly missed and most fondly remembered.



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