Delroy Lee Holzwarth passed away at his home in Salina, Kansas, on December 23, 2025. He was born on October 28, 1946, in St. Francis, Kansas, to Marie and Alvin Holzwarth.
Delroy grew up on working on the family farm, and enjoyed spending his days exploring alongside his dog and best friend, Rex. Guided by an adventurous spirit, he set out after graduation to experience new places and pursue new opportunities.
He entered the food service industry, where he met Kathy Place. They were married in 1976 and shared 49 years together. An entrepreneur at heart, Delroy, alongside Kathy, built a variety of successful business ventures, ranging from real estate to futures and options trading, and ultimately an award-winning BBQ restaurant, featured in Food Network Magazine, The Hickory Tree, in Smolan Kansas.
Over the course of his life, he enjoyed many things, including what his family would call “treasure hunting” with his metal detector, riding motorcycles with multiple trips to Sturgis, exploring new places, “playing” on his tractor and as he got older, spending time with his sweet King Charles Cavalier, Wylee.
He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Kathy Holzwarth; and his mother, Marie Holzwarth.
Delroy was the proud father of five children: Mylee (Jon), Darin (Suzanne), Kama (Phillip), Shamryn, and Josh (Marcie). He was also blessed with 6 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his father, Alvin Holzwarth, and his son, Darin Clapper.
The Funeral Service will be held on January 3rd at 11am at the St. Francis United Methodist Church in St. Francis Kansas. A luncheon at the church will follow the service.
There will be an open house on January 17th from 1-4pm at the Holzwarth residence at 1365 Bethel Circle, Salina KS.
Any and all are welcome to either.
Prayer of Conviction:
Father,
Thank you for inviting me into Your presence. Help me remember that my soul finds rest not busyness but in being still before You – to hear Your voice, feel Your nearness and draw strength from Your love. Recharge my weary heart today. Renew my mind and restore my spirit. In Jesus precious name, Amen.
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Jack Hibbs Ministries, PO box 1273, Chino Hills, CA 91709 or the friends of the Salina Animal Shelter.