On Friday, June 24, 2022 God followed his plan and welcomed home Greg Kes to Heaven. He passed unexpectedly at the age of 54. Greg was a lifelong resident of Prior Lake, MN. During his lifetime, he was a proud and amazing father and husband, a devoted son, loyal brother and friend to many.
All of the services will be held at Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church, 3611 North Berens Road NW, Prior Lake. A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 30th, from 4-7pm and on Friday, July 1st, from 9:30 – 10:45am, with a celebration of life, at 11 am. Pastor Laila Barr will preside. Pall bearers will be Carter Kes, Garrett Kes, Tanner Kes, Jamie Kes, Mark Kes, Kevin Kes, John Hennen, Scott Hennen, Paul Gigstad, Darcy Voehl and Bill VonBank. Greg will be laid to rest at Spring Lake Cemetary.
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On a hot summer day of July 19th, 1967, at Queen of Peace Hospital, in New Prague, MN, Donald and Dianne (Hennen) proudly announced the birth of their second of five children, Gregory Donald Kes. Soon after birth, the doctors discovered a heart defect that would lead to several heart surgeries in his childhood. He grew up and lived a normal life without any restrictions. His parents had a strong faith and trust in God that Greg would live a full life. Greg attended St. Michael Catholic School, where he enjoyed playing baseball and basketball. The Kes family enjoyed spending time together most of all at the family cabin on Cedar Lake. Greg enjoyed his time on the water especially boating and barefoot skiing. Greg also had a passion for golf.
After graduating from Prior Lake High School in 1986, Greg went on to earn an Economics Degree at St. Cloud State University. He took his passion for numbers and began a long career as a Financial Advisor. Most of Greg’s career was spent on Main Street in Prior Lake working together with his father-in-law George Pinc. Greg successfully owned and operated Kes Investment Services for many years and loved advising his clients. Greg was an active member of the Prior Lake Rotary Club and volunteered at many of their events.
On September 11th, 1993, Greg and Tana were married at Shepherd of the Lake Lutheran Church. Their life was enriched with three sons, Carter, Garrett and Tanner. Greg was a proud and encouraging dad. Greg and Tana loved raising their boys and created many memories that will be cherished forever.
On September 15th, 2010, Greg had a stroke and spent the following year completing rehabilitation at Methodist Hospital. Greg attended the Stroke Inspire support group and eventually supported other stroke survivors.
After his long rehabilitation, Greg returned to the workforce as an Usher at the Xcel Energy Center and working at Hazeltine National Golf Club. An avid sports enthusiast, Greg enjoyed cheering on all the Minnesota teams.
Greg was a proud and loving father. He spent countless hours year-round supporting Carter in hockey. Greg & Garrett capped off many adventures, most recently in Paris where they took a weekend trip to Prague. Greg was Tanners biggest fan on the football field and was able to recently celebrate Tanner’s graduation from Prior Lake High School. Forever loved, Gregs kind, selfless and gentle heart will live on through his sons, Carter, Garrett and Tanner. Greg is survived by Carter Kes (Bella) Garrett Kes, Tanner Kes, and their mother, Tana; parents, Don and Dianne Kes; siblings, Jamie (Tracy) Kes, Janel (Jim) Klugherz, Katherine Kes, Mark (Dawn) Kes; many nieces and nephews; dogs, Mauer and Zucker; former parents-in-law, George and Judy Pinc; and an abundance of relatives and friends.
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Dar Mikler
My heart goes out to the family Greg was a very special person in so many peoples lives he truly will be missed RIP dear Greg
Dan Pieper
Greg… where do I start…
Just an incredible human. Last time I saw him was at a wild game, (for like the 5th time) and he was grinning ear to ear when he saw me, as always. Greg and I always joking around about every damn thing. So much more to say.
To the Kes Family especially and everyone else affected, I am so sorry for your loss. To say Greg will be missed is such an understatement. Rest Easy, Sir.
Meridith Nordin
I will miss his smiling face around the Xcel! My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Teresa Hemingson
I’m very sorry to hear this news. Greg was a very nice person and had a great smile.
Jan Hertaus
So sorry for your loss. Greg was a great guy. May God give you strength and comfort in the days ahead.
Mary Schultz
I have no words. God bless Gregory “Peck” Kes.❤️
Hergott Family
This is just so sad and shocking. Our hearts and prayers to all of your family during this difficult time. RIP Greg !
Patsy Kechely
So sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts & prayers
John Eibs
Thoughts and prayers to the Kes Family. Peace, comfort and strength at this difficult time.
I was blessed to have Greg as a friend in my life dating back to 1st grade. A true Laker and a great person who will be dearly missed by all!
Auntie Joy
Greg was such a special person and will be greatly missed.
So sorry for your loss.
Jeff Hemingson
So sorry to read this. Greg was a great guy and a very positive influence to me!
Dar & Sandy Fosse
Thinking of you during this very difficult time. So sorry for your loss! God Bless your family.
LaVonne Dahlstrom
My sympathy to all the family. He was a gentle soul and will be greatly missed.
Prayers to all.
Pam Whitemore
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Bob & Pam Whitemore
Curt and Karen Nohrenberg
Our sincere condolences to the family in this time of great sadness and grief. God’s peace be with you.
Deb and Ted Busse
Our hearts are with the Kes family and friends. We were both fortunate enough to graduate with Greg and see him around town on occasion. He was a great man whose easy smile will not be forgotten. Rest in peace.
Maggie Klein
My heart goes out to you dear Tana and boys. Greg was special to me ever since I met him at age 5 when he and Michael became friends. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Maggie Klein
Anne Castle
Tana, Carter, Garrett, Tanner;
So sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Anne Castle & the Heaney kids
Laura Malecha
There are many heavy hearts at the Savage Hy-Vee. We will miss you dear friend!
Bob Wetherille
I was so saddened to read Greg’s obituary today. A great guy, and friend as we served on the Shepherd of the Lake Foundation together for many years. My deepest sympathies to Tana and the family.
Kim Schmitz
My deepest sympathies to Greg’s entire family. Such a kind, kind soul. Prayers with all of you right now.
Laurie Hartmann
I got to know Greg through Prior Lake Rotary. He was a great volunteer on many projects and always showed up with a smile and positive enthusiasm. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Scott Hennen
Greg was a best friend to many. He lived his life to serve others. He packed more into his life of 54 years than of those that live 100. Greg had too many accomplishments to mention but his greatest was his three sons Carter Garret and Tanner. They all excelled at sports and everything else they did. He spent his life grooming these boys to be the men that they are today.They will be his legacy. Greg was able to navigate. rouph waters during his life and he did it with class.I know he will have smooth sailing from this day on.
Rest in peace Brother
Tim Nelson
Awesome! well stated!
Howie Arntzen
I am deeply surprised and saddened by the news of Greg’s passing. I worked with him at the X. He was a great guy to talk with. He was the salt of the Earth. He talked of his family, and trips planned with them. He was a unique, and sincere person. I know he was a great ambassador for the Guest Services at the X. He will be missed.
Bless you, the family of Greg.
Christine
Beautifully said. I agree 100%! <3
Beth Menke
Condolences to Greg’s family . He was a Saint Mikes buddy . He had a gentle way about him and such a kind person.
Rod and Wendy Christman
While we did not know Greg, we have met Carter, who is a friend of our daughter, Kallan, through the aviation world.
It was immediately obvious what a great guy Carter is and now reading about his dad and the Kes family, we can see why! What a beautiful legacy Greg has left. May you find much comfort and peace through the promises of God. Psalms tell us……“Precious in the sight of God, is the death of His saints”.
Jim and Verna Erickson
So sorry for your loss. May god be with you during this difficult time
Karen Bjorgan
Am so very sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. He was a caring and member of the Inspire Program. His kind words to others dealing with stroke were supportive and help many move forward in their recoveries. He will be missed.
My heart goes out to all of you during this difficult time.
Elle Sutterfield
I will miss my favorite Uncle. He was such a kind , funny and loving person and I am grateful he was in my life. I will always remember him being my Valleyfair buddy and our exchange of calling eachother. “Dude party”. Elle (Noelle)
Ken Schoenbauer
Wow … So incredibly sad to hear this news!!! I couldn’t believe it when I first heard it …
54 is way too young … Its so hard to understand God’s plan for all of us.
My deepest sympathies go out to all of you. Greg will definitely be missed.
Julie Skovran
Our family has a heavy heart for the family of Greg. We hold comfort that Greg is with us in spirit as you mourn his loss. Rest In Peace Greg, I remember you as the little brother of my classmate Jamie ❤️.
Kelly and Patrick Elster
My husband and I live in Savage worked with Greg at the Xcel. He always had a smile on his face and was obviously so proud of his family. It was fun watching him when Prior Lake was in the tourney this past year and his son was there watching. Every time he walked by me whenever I saw him he would say “ Go Prior Lake!!” We are so very sorry for your loss!!
GARY R ILSTRUP
My deepest sympathy to the Kes family. Greg was such a happy, friendly and dignified person and will be missed by everyone.
Don Engel
Sad news…condolences to Greg’s family, you all know what a great guy he was. he always brightened my day every time we worked together as ushers at Xcel or RiverCentre events.
Greg & Nancy Sarno
Greg and I worked with Greg at the Xcel Energy Center. We have 2 sons and enjoyed talking about all our boys immensely. He was always smiling and so very kind. We will miss him and our hearts go out to all of you. He was a very proud and blessed man.
Greg & Nancy Sarno
Nora Ivory
I am so sorry to hear about Greg’s passing. He was a wonderful guy and a joy to work with at the Xcel Center. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and relatives.
Don & Vikki Anderson
We worked with Greg at the Excel, he was always smiling.
And a joy to “watch” Wild games with while working.
Greg’s smiles will be missed by many.
Don & Vikki Anderson
Jill Nagel
So saddened by the news. Greg came over and spoke to me on Tuesday at Hazeltine. So kind and gentle , asking about Florida .
I will miss him.
David Hellmuth
Greg worked at Hazeltine National GC. Just a few weeks ago, on Father’s Day, Greg asked me if I had kids and wished me a happy father’s day. I asked about his kids and he told me about the boys. I did not know Greg very well, but he had a loving heart and a kind word for everyone. My thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends.
Les Bolstad
I knew Greg from Hazeltine. I saw him last week; as he was passing me in a cart we exchanged knuckles. Greg always greeted me with such sincere kindness. He was a gentle soul and I will miss seeing him at the golf course. Rest In Peace Greg.
Cheryl & Virgil Schneider
Blessings and prayers for the family..
Jim Kermes
From the first time that I met Greg working at Xcel, we were friends. A couple of years later I wanted to take a road trip to the southern U.S. and needed a co-pilot.
I asked Greg if wanted the seat. He immediately agreed.
We spent 10 days and 4000 miles together driving, seeing lots of historic sites and had a very memorable time chatting and laughing.
Greg was a very nice person and he will most definitely be missed at the Arena.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Jim Kermes
Jim Andersen
Greg , will be missed by the Hazeltine membership. He was a true pro, always positive , engaging and helpful.
Cherish the great memories and my thoughts and prayers extend to the entire Kes family.
Ruth Travis
Though I have never had the privilege of meeting Greg’s family, I wanted to add my sympathies and condolences to the many who were touched by Greg in his lifetime. As a Hazeltine member, I can tell you we lost a warm smile and caring gentleman who brightened the day of every HNGC member he met. May your memories be as blessed as ours have been. Ruth Travis.
Marianne Bruentrup
So sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. He worked with me on the 200 level at the Xcel Energy Center. He was awesome and would help anywhere that was needed! He will be missed! So glad I was able to know him! My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends!
Marlene K Wright
My heartfelt sympathy to Greg’s family. He was a joy to work with at the Xcel. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Wayne Nordin
I am sorry to hear that Greg has passed. It was my pleasure to work with Greg as an Usher at the Xcel Energy Center. Greg was always kind and welcoming to guests and a fun person to work along side of. He was a real gentleman with a quick wit and a sense of humor. He will be missed.
Jo Hoffman
Don, Diane and Greg’s family. We are so sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. We are holding you in our hearts during this sad time. Hugs and God Bless. Ted & Jo Hoffman
Kenny Kalina
Don & Diane and family, we are so sorry for your loss. There are no words. We’re thinking of you and praying for comfort and peace for all of you.
Kenny & Dolo Kalina
Ruth Kimmelshue, Gary Reding and Family
To the Kes Family–We knew Greg from Hazeltine. He was kind, thoughtful and always encouraging. Our thoughts and prayers are will all of you. Thank you for sharing a little bit of Greg with us!
Corey Stich
Greg was a great person. Every time I saw him he was the happiest person, always smiling, always saying hi. The last time I saw him was at HyVee in Savage. I forgot something and he was wanted to help right away. A helpful, happy person. That’s the Greg I will always remember. I can’t believe that’s the last time I’ll see him. Great guy.
Pamela Lammersen
Condolences to Greg’s children (including Zucker) and family – I am thinking of you guys .
This was quite a shock and a loss to the neighbourhood; it will be strange not to see Greg popping out to throw the ball for Zucker. Thank you to Greg for being a great neighbour, you will be missed and remembered around here.
-Pamela
Terry sharp
I was so sorry to hear about the news today of Greg’s passing. As a stroke survivor and member of the inspire group I was blessed to know Greg. I saw him at the recent outdoor gathering which reminded me of his smile and the love of the inspire group. May he Rest In Peace.
Lawrence & Beatrice Cates
We are so sorry to hear about Greg’s death. We know how hard it is to lose a son as we also did in 1976.
We are offering prayers for you and your families God Bless Larry and Betty Cates
Paige L Saterdalen
Greg was a wonderful kind man and I am so very sorry to hear this news.
So sorry to his family, Tana and their wonderful boys. May they treasure all the fantastic memories and remain forever blessed as he watches over them from heaven. Sending loving thoughts and prayers.
Sally Wattermann
Our deepest sympathies. Our family loved and cherishes the family picnics we had at Cleary Park on many Memorial Days. The whiffle games were a blast along with just hanging out and chatting.
James Schrader
So sad to hear of Greg’s passing while I didn’t know his immediate family I’ve known the Kes’s for years working with his mom and Don did our taxes every year and sent to school with Jamie. When Greg started with the financial business I was bring all my 401k info to him and always looked for when shopping at Hy-Vee I guess gif need a grocery bagger too hope to see ya some day. RIP Greg
lori mcmanus
I am sad to hear the news about Greg. I had the pleasure of getting to know Greg during our OT sessions at Methodist Hospital when he was recovering from his stroke. He worked hard on his recovery and achieved so much. He was a proud Dad and loved to share what his boys were up to. My condolences to the Kes family, Tana and friends.
Sean Mack
We are very sorry to hear the news about Greg, we ran into him walking around Cleary last summer and he seemed very happy. Always a friendly guy, he will be greatly missed.
Josephine Schmaltz
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the Kes Family. Greg always had a smile & a hug every time I saw him. Greg you will greatly missed by everyone who new him.
Josie & Curt Schmaltz
Barbara LaCourse
I join in the sorrow of the loss of Greg, a loving member of the Kes family. I feel lucky that I got to know Greg and his family during my years teaching at St. Mike’s. May he rest in love.
Mark Salisbury
I met Greg many years ago as he was my life insurance agent for several years. He was immediately likable, very pleasant . Sad that he is gone so young. I did not see him often, but have fond memories of the times we saw him. Rest in Peace, Greg
Kim & Barry Hobart
Our hearts and prayers are with the entire Kes family, as well as with your extended family and friends. May God hold everyone close and bring you strength, comfort & peace.
Linda Anderson
So very sorry to see this obituary today! I had run into Greg recently and as always, he had a huge smile and such a gentle demeanor as he asked how I was doing! Always so kind! I am glad I got to know him through Garrett in first grade! My sympathy! Please cherish the memories he has given you all.
Christine Bradley
I’ve known Greg since grade school and graduated with him in 1986. Last September, following a class reunion, he called, asked me out and we have been dating ever since. The last 9 months have been a mixture of being silly, jamming to music (Johnny Cash was his favorite) while driving to nowhere, playing bar bingo, grocery shopping (he loved to cook), and eating treats. We’d eat popcorn and snuggle up while watching the Wild games on tv, we wrestled and played with Zucker, took him for walks in the park, and we shared secrets, hopes and dreams. In February, we took a beautiful vacation to St. Petersburg, FL. It was there that he drove me to Naples for the day. His great plan was to retire and move there starting this November of 2022. We drove around the city, walked the pier and the beach, he talked non-stop about why Naples was paradise and therefore, the perfect place to live forever. He talked often of his friends, sharing childhood memories and current events. Friends, he had SO many friends! He also spoke often of his 3 boys, and how proud he was of each of them in their own special ways. Greg was passionate, loyal, generous, funny, and soft-spoken. He had a beautiful smile with a super cool underbite 🙂 He was the kindest man I’ve ever known and I will miss him, I will miss him, I will miss him.
To Don and Diane, I am so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine what it must be like to lose a child. Thank you for sharing Greg to all of us who had the pleasure of him to be a part of our lives in one way or another. I have no doubt that he happy and living in his paradise now. To Carter, Garret and Tanner… In time, I hope you can draw comfort from not only your friends and family, but also within each other. You have his best work and most profound love buried into your DNA. In times of trouble, when you need a helping hand, look deep inside yourselves or turn to each other. You will always find your dad, alive and well, and listening. <3
Sandi Fleck
To the whole Kes Family, I’m so sorry for you loss! Greg lit up the room with his big smile. Hugs and prayers.
Andrea gates
My deepest condolences . My prayers goes out to you for comfort and peace as you face this trying times. Take comfort knowing he’s with God and watching over you.
Andrea (Busse) Gates
Prior Lake Rotary Club - Sandy Kaul
The Prior Lake Rotary sends our sympathy to the family of Greg. He was a great Rotarian, servant and friend. We will miss you Greg!
Bob Fafinski
I had the honor to serve as President of Hazeltine National during Greg’s tenure at the Club. In fact, my last lengthy conversation with Greg was the day before he died. He was excited about the tournament we had going on at the course last weekend. Greg always had a kind word for everyone. His smile and attitude always left me feeling better after our exchange. Greg will be missed by his entire Hazeltine family.
My heart goes out to the entire family. Everyone at Hazeltine National shares in your loss. God bless.
Deb & Chuck Busch
We are so sad to hear the news of Greg! Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy are with you all. You are a wonderful and loving family and may you cherish all of the amazing memories you have made together! Take care!
Linda Breeggemann
Our deepest sympathy to Don and Diane and Greg’s family, You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Eric Dahlstrom
Very sad my heart is with my Minnesota family.
Roger Dahlstrom
Very sorry to hear about about Gregg’s passing. My sympathy to all his family.
Margaret Barrett
So sad to see this. I enjoyed working & visiting with Greg at the Excel. His smile was always welcoming. He will be missed by all who knew him. May he RIP.
Deb Sunderman
Sympathy to all your family on the loss of Greg. When I saw him at HyVee he was always so cheerful and welcoming. Hugs to all, hold tight to the memories .❤️
Greg Collins
We’re so sorry to hear of Greg’s passing…he was a true friend who I shared much with and we met regularly to catch up with our families. We met in our Lutheran Brotherhood new agent classes and stayed friends thru his life time. He was so proud of his three boys and I knew the love he had for each and their accomplishments. Unfortunately both Jane and I came down with Covid earlier this week and won’t be able to attend the service this Friday. Our hearts go out to Tana and the boys as he will always hold a special place in their hearts. Greg
Joe and Linda Rorke
We were so saddened to hear about Greg’s passing. We knew him from Hazeltine. Greg was always so cheerful and gracious. It was always a pleasure to talk with him.
Greg was such a kind, friendly person. We miss him!
Denny Denny De Nio
Sorry to hear of Greg’s passing, He was a great guy in our Inspire stroke group. I sat by him often and shared jokes and laughed a lot. He was one of the rare people I could talk to about current events.
He was a special person; God bless your family.
Denny De Nio
Holly Schultz
The Schultz Family will miss Greg’s warm greetings and smile at Hazeltine. This spring we ran into Greg at a Wild game and enjoyed “hockey talk” with him ever since. He will be missed by all of us – Our deepest sympathies to his family and friends, Joel, Holly, Drew and Zach
Vicki Glassman
Don and Diane, We are so very sorry at this sudden and terrible loss. We’ve been honored to watch the love of your family for each other all these years, being blessed to live next door to Jim. Our continued prayers go out for you and the entire family. Our hearts grieve with yours. Vicki and Michael Glassman
Jennifer Dahlstrom
My deepest condolences to the Kes family for your loss. Wishing you peace during this tumultuous time. I am thinking of you and and sending my love.
Jim Bishop
As a new usher to the Xcel this past year, it was so very easy to turn to a friendly face of Mr. Kes, who was more than willing to offer up instruction, and give advice on how to be a great co-worker. In the short time I knew Greg, and from what I’m reading in other posts, he will be a man truly missed. God rest your soul my friend.
Ted Langer
So sorry to hear of Greg’s passing. I worked with him at the X and always enjoyed striking up a conversation with him before events or if we happened to be on our break at the same time. He was very helpful to me when I started and all the rookie ushers. we will all miss him.
Greg and Jill Thompson
Don, Dianne, and Family,
We are so sorry for the loss of your son/brother/father, Greg. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May God bless his memory and the rich legacy he has left here. We hope the good times help get you through the difficult times.
Mike kangas
I was a stroke survivor, where I met Greg. We developed a great friendship having coffee together every week. His boys might remember me helping in his move. Greg loved his boys and most of our conversations were directed about them, flying, sports, college. He was so proud of them. I am sorry, moved to rapid city a1.5 yrs ago. We talked via phone occasionally. I hope his boys are proud of him. A fighter but also a kind man. I am sorry just found out.my prayers have always included him and Miko, now they will include his sons. God bless his family. L. Mike