Dates
As Lanny Kiest's daughters, we were privileged to watch him build a remarkable life. We saw him succeed in broadcast sales, excel at volleyball and golf, and fill rooms with song through his love of a cappella music. Through his example, he taught us the value of hard work, the importance of pursuing our passions, and the resilience needed to navigate life's joys and challenges.
Lanny was born on December 24, 1937, in Rockford, Illinois. He attended Oregon High School, where he played football and basketball before continuing his education at Knox College. There, he extended his football career and became a member of the ROTC program.
Following his college graduation in 1959, Lanny was commissioned into the U.S. Army and stationed at Fort Riley, Kansas, where he completed Officer Training. He served his country for four years before receiving an honorable discharge in 1962 and beginning what would become a successful career in sales.
His professional journey began in the advertising department of a bubble gum company on Long Island, New York. After a brief stint with an advertising agency, he discovered his true calling in television sales and management. His career took him and his family to Saginaw, Michigan; Houston, Texas; Little Rock, Arkansas; Tallahassee, Florida; and Midland/Odessa, Texas, before he eventually settled at KLST-TV in San Angelo, Texas, where he remained until his retirement in 2007.
While attending college, Lanny met the love of his life, Sallie Utley. Their story began thanks to a little matchmaking from Lanny's mother, Elizabeth, who lived across the street from Sallies's family. Proud of her tall, handsome, athletic son, Elizabeth persuaded Sallie to stop by the house while Lanny was home from college. Sallie, who stood 5-foot-11, was immediately impressed by his height and charm. In fact, she jokingly admitted she broke two longstanding rules by dating a man with a big nose and big ears. Lanny, meanwhile, was captivated by Sally's beauty, intelligence, and unforgettable personality. The two quickly became inseparable and married on July 3, 1963. Together, they built a loving family, raising three daughters, Tracey, Meredith, and Kelly, and later welcoming six cherished grandchildren.
During his years in Houston, Lanny discovered barbershop harmony and immediately fell in love with the music. For the next 38 years, he sang in barbershop choruses and quartets, eventually joining the Twin Mountain Tonesmen in San Angelo in XXXX. Music brought him tremendous joy, lifelong friendships, and countless memorable performances. In recognition of his dedication, he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the organization.
Lanny was also an accomplished golfer who rarely passed up an opportunity to spend a day on the course with friends. Golf remained one of his greatest joys throughout his life. As recently as July, he could be found on the links, appreciating the beauty around him, the satisfaction of a well-struck shot, and the companionship and laughter that made the game so special.
Dedicated to serving others, Lanny was an active member of the Rotary Club and served on the board of La Esperanza Clinic in San Angelo, generously sharing his time and talents with the community he loved.
Lanny is survived by his daughters, Tracey, Meredith, and Kelly; his beloved grandchildren; his sister-in-law; and many friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, humor, and friendship.
If Lanny touched your life, we hope you will join us in celebrating his remarkable journey on Saturday, September 12, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 37 E. Beauregard in San Angelo. A reception will follow the service.
He will be remembered for his devotion to family, God and his ability to make friends wherever life took him.
Roland L. "Lanny" Kiest Jr., 87, of San Angelo, Texas, passed away surrounded by the love of family and friends.
Born on December 24, 1937, in Rockford, Illinois, Lanny attended Oregon High School before continuing his education at Knox College, where he played football and participated in ROTC. After graduating in 1959, he was commissioned into the U.S. Army and served four years before beginning a successful career in broadcast sales and television management.
His career took him and his family across the country, including stops in Michigan, Texas, Arkansas, and Florida, before he settled at KLST-TV in San Angelo, where he worked until retiring in 2007.
While in college, Lanny met the love of his life, Sallie Utley. They married on July 3, 1963, and built a loving family together, raising three daughters and later welcoming six grandchildren.
A devoted barbershop singer for nearly four decades, Lanny found lifelong friendships and tremendous joy through music. He was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to the craft. An avid golfer, he remained active on the course well into his final months.
Lanny also gave generously to his community through the Rotary Club and service on the board of La Esperanza Clinic.
He is survived by his daughters, Tracey, Meredith, and Kelly; six beloved grandchildren; extended family members; and many dear friends.
A celebration of Lanny's life will be held Saturday, September 12, at 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 37 E. Beauregard, San Angelo, with a reception to follow.
Lanny will be remembered for his devotion to family, faith, friendship, and the joy he brought to those around him.