Kenneth J. Doll

1927 - 2021

MISSION, KANSAS - Kenneth J. Doll died at age 94 on February 13, 2021, in Kansas City, Missouri. His passions for literature, art, opera, and film, especially movie classics, defined him as elegantly as his fine sense of tailoring. His love for family imbued him with such warmth that his five siblings and 23 nieces and nephews all have their favorite stories about him.
"He was always so thoughtful and kind," says his sister, Elaine Aaron, remembering that when Kenneth returned from a European tour, he brought a gift for each niece and nephew at the time.
Born and raised in Wright, Kansas, he lived in Kansas City and in Mission, Kansas most of his life. His last years were spent in Kingswood Senior Living Community in Kansas City where he delighted in listening to opera recordings and watching old movies.
Kenneth was born on January 6, 1927 to the late Dora and Fred Doll. After graduating from St. Joseph Military Academy in Hays, he entered the Army at the end of World War II. The GI bill helped him go to Rockhurst College in Kansas City, and he settled in the city. He began his career in accounting, and was for many years office manager for then Gage & Tucker law firm (now Lathrop GPM LLP). His sister, Charlene Gernon, recalls that after retirement he would dress in suit and tie to go to the local library to read the newspapers – the Kansas City Star, the New York Times, Washington Post and more. When asked why the suit and tie, Kenneth replied: "You gain respect" when you're dressed up.
A champion of Democrat politics and civic duty, Kenneth walked miles daily and carried a plastic bag to collect litter from the streets long before the environmental movement became popular. He often wrote letters to the editor to the Kansas City Star, taking pride when they were published. More than one letter complained of littering and suggested strict punishments.
Travel was another passion for him, and he and his long-time partner, the late Hal Heathman, saw Europe in the 1950s, sailed the Nile in the 80s, visited Russia, and reveled in theater in London and New York City. For many years, Kenneth went every summer to the Santa Fe Opera and to see performances in New York, San Francisco and elsewhere. Always gracious hosts, Kenneth and Hal welcomed friends and relatives to their home on Wornall Road and to their condo in Mission. There were always pets – dogs and cats that were well-fed and spoiled.
Kenneth supported the arts, especially the Nelson Gallery of Art, and animal welfare organizations. His knowledge of movie classics was encyclopedic, and he
saw the latest art house movies well into his late 80s. Although he lamented that he didn't cook, he loved to go to restaurants, and was especially fond of chocolate and other sweets. He was a communicant at Pius X Catholic Church in Mission.
The family wants to thank the staff of Kingswood Senior Living for their kindness, especially Karlene Witt.
Kenneth is survived by his 3 sisters, Elaine Aaron, Wichita, Charlene Gernon, Hiawatha, Mary Christine Merritt, Franklin, West Virginia; his 2 brothers, Loren Doll, Dodge City, and Quentin Doll, Wichita; and 23 nieces and nephews.
He was also preceded in death by his sister, Evelyn Doll Steimel, who died in November 2020.
Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 am Tuesday March 9, 2021 at St. Andrew Church, Wright, with Fr. Ted Stoecklein presiding. Rosary will be prior to the mass at 10:30 am. Burial will follow mass in the St. Andrew Cemetery. There will be no public viewing, cremation has taken place. The family asks if you plan to attend services please wear masks and practice social distancing.
The family suggests memorials to Wayside Waifs, Nelson-Atkins Gallery of Art, or the Kansas City Lyric Opera all in care of Ziegler Funeral Chapel, 1901 N. 14th Avenue, Dodge City, Kansas 67801. Condolences may be sent to www.zieglerfuneralchapel.com.