Walton Kent Ingham, 79, of Leawood Ks passed away in his home on December 22, 2025. The funeral will be held at Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa Ks 66215, on Friday, January 2nd with a visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m. followed by services at 10:30am. We will then proceed to Leavenworth National Cemetery, 150 Muncie Road, Leavenworth, KS 66048 for full military honors beginning at 12:30pm. Mr. Ingham's family would like to invite family and friends to a gathering at 9519 Windsor St, Leawood, KS 66206 following committal services.
Kent was born in Kansas City Missouri on October 21, 1946. He was the son of Dr. Walton Charles and Ruby Ingham. Kent proudly served in the United States Army as an Infantryman, attaining the rank of Specialist Five (E-5). He served honorably during the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1970 and was rewarded a Purple Heart, a testament to his courage and bravery. Kent attended and graduated from Pittsburg State University where he met his wife Julie Lamasney-Ingham. They were married on August 18th 1972. In October of 1978 Kent and Julie were blessed by a bundle of joy, Mollie. Kent and Julie were married for 46 loving years. They moved to Grandview, Mo and later settled in Leawood, Ks where they lived for the last 53 years. Kent worked as an insurance claims adjuster until he retired.
Kent and barbeque were synonymous. From the American Royal Barbeque to Holy Smokes Barbeque competitions, block parties and any excuse to fire up a smoker. Kent found joy in bringing people together through food. Two Men and a Fridge earned a loyal following, and Kent poured his heart into every cook. He approached competitions with intensity, passion, and- according to the official record-a calm demeanor under pressure.
Kent is survived by his daughter Mollie Maresch, her husband Andrew. Andrew’s daughters, Abby and Naomi; his brother, Steve Ingham and Maureen, along with their children, Katie, Annie, Mary, and Sam.
Kent’s greatest joy was his family, and his greatest gift to so many was his friendship. He was not just a father to Mollie, but a mentor and trusted guide to countless friends and neighbors, always willing to listen, teach, and help. For this we will be forever grateful.