Hurricane, Utah - Gene Francis "Ki" Kiholm, 85, passed away on February 6, 2025. Born on April 25, 1939, in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Ki lived a life marked by service, adventure, and an enduring love for family and faith. Ki began his professional journey with Southern California Edison as a laborer, where after training, became a welder in the construction and maintenance department. Over the course of his 34-year career with the utility company, he rose to become a site construction manager for power plant facilities.

After retiring from SCE, Ki continued to share his expertise as a private contractor, managing the construction of new power plants across the United States and internationally in countries such as Spain, Malaysia, Argentina, and Canada. His work ethic and leadership left a lasting impact on colleagues and projects around the globe.

A proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, Ki served his country with honor after attending the University of Utah, where he played basketball. His time in the Marines exemplified his commitment to discipline and service—qualities that would define his life. In his earlier years, Ki was a natural athlete who excelled in basketball and softball. He earned numerous accolades for his athletic achievements and continued pitching in semi-pro fast-pitch softball into his 40s.

With his love of speed and adventure, Ki embraced the motto "He who dies with the most toys wins," amassing an impressive collection of trucks, boats, ATVs, and other vehicles. However, as life progressed, he found joy in simpler pleasures while maintaining his enthusiasm for spectator sports. Ki's faith played a central role in his life.

As an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served diligently in various Ward and Stake callings. Together with his beloved wife Mary Kiholm, Ki answered the call to serve two missions—one in Nigeria and another in Santiago, Philippines. These experiences brought him immense joy and forged cherished friendships that endured throughout his life.

Above all else, Ki will be remembered for his boundless generosity and unwavering sense of humor. He found happiness in serving others, often stepping in to help during times of hardship or crisis. Whether through acts of kindness or sharing one of his signature corny jokes, Ki created an atmosphere of warmth and laughter wherever he went.

Ki is survived by his devoted wife Mary Kiholm and their blended family daughters: Janet Parker (Bruce), Cassandra Thornton (William), Elise Whitworth (Lee); stepsons: Robert Bruhn and Blaine Gomez (Janette); and stepdaughters: Christy Lea (John) and Denise Poniachik (Samuel). He was a proud grandfather to Amy Gittins (Kory), Gregory Parker, Carlie Wynn (Erik), Molly Parker, William Thornton, Skyla Thornton, Logan Whitworth, Lucas Whitworth, Carson Aprato, Jeremiah Niez (Emily), Jordan Poniachik (Ashley), Shaina Poniachik, Zayne Gomez, Bryan Antimano, and Justin Bruhn; as well as great-grandfather to Parker Gittins, Gabe Gittins, Chase Kent Gittins, Georgia Wynn, Miles Wynn, Lorelei Niez, Frederick Niez, Oskar Niez, Sloane Poniachik, Ollie Poniachik. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who hold a special place in his heart. He was predeceased by his parents, Dorothy and Francis Kiholm; brothers: Jimmy Lee Kiholm (survived by Joanne), Robert Jack Kiholm (Deborah), Douglas L. Kiholm (survived by Shirley); and sealed son, Phillip Anthony Romero.

Ki's legacy is one of love, laughter, faith, and service. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness and humor. May those who knew him find comfort in remembering the joy he brought into their lives.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in the Hurricane Heights Chapel, 155 East 1050 North, Hurricane, Utah.  Interment will be in the Hurricane City Cemetery located at 255 East 600 North.

To view Ki's funeral service please click on the link below.

Gene Kiholm Livestream