Gaylan Henry Holst, the son of Harry and Senta (Krohn) Holst, was born June 8, 1933, in Walnut, IA. Gaylan died July 22, 2025, at The Heritage at Fox Run, in Council Bluffs, IA, at the age of 92 years, 1 month, and 14 days.
Gaylan attended country school in Walnut and graduated from Walnut High School. He served in the Air Force until he was honorably discharged. He received a Bachelor of Science in Biology from UNO and began working for Missouri Portland Cement in Omaha, where he eventually became Plant Manager until his retirement.
He married Marilyn ‘Jean’ Allman on October 10, 1953, and they lived in several different places before returning to the family farm west of Griswold. Gaylan was a member of the Griswold United Methodist Church and was known for his enthusiasm for trains, old farm machinery, and attending threshing shows.
He was preceded in death by his wife Marilyn ‘Jean’ Holst on August 28, 2023, his parents, and his sister Sherri.
He is survived by his sons: Alan Holst and wife Terri of Council Bluffs, IA; Brian Holst and wife Maria of Omaha, NE; and Darran Holst and wife Dawn of Omaha, NE. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Sarah, Nathan, Logan, Jacob, and Emmalyn Holst, all of Omaha, NE, and many other relatives and friends.
A celebration of life memorial service will be held on Friday, August 1, 2025, at 1:30 PM at the Griswold United Methodist Church. Visitation with the family will immediately follow the service until 3:30 PM. Rieken Duhn Funeral Home in Griswold is assisting the family.
