The Trinity High School community mourns the sudden passing of varsity volleyball head coach Ken Uhlir, who took his last breath on April 14, 2025, at the age of 60.
Ken Uhlir is survived by his wife, Chris Uhlir, and his three children: daughter Carlyn Uhlir and sons Franklin and William Uhlir.
The celebrated volleyball coach at Trinity Uhlir’s influence extended to the broader volleyball community. In 2009, he and his wife, Chris, founded the Triple Ace Volleyball Club in River Forest, serving approximately 140 young athletes.
Likewise, he also left behind his siblings, brother Bill Uhlir, sister Cathy (Craig) Cooper, brother John (Sarah) Uhlir, and Andrew (Jill) Uhlir, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
Ken Uhlir was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Helen (nee Randall) Uhlir, and his stepmother, Marilyn Uhlir.
Trinity High School announced Uhlir’s death via its Facebook page on April 15, expressing sorrow. The post reads:
Coach Uhlir was a cherished member of the Trinity community for the past 11 seasons and made a lasting impact on countless student-athletes with his passion, dedication, and unwavering support.
Uhlir, a proud father to Carly Uhlir (Class of 2017), led the Blazers’ volleyball program for over a decade, securing four IHSA regional championships in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2021.
Ken Trendel, Trinity’s athletic director, described the news as devastating to the Wednesday Journal, saying,
It’s been a rough couple of days. Ken instilled a passion for volleyball in every girl he encountered, including my daughters, Liv and Maddie.
Trendel, who considered Uhlir a mentor and friend, added, “He was like a big brother to me. He helped me through a lot of situations. It’s a big loss for me, my daughters, and our program.”
Retired Fenwick coach Kathleen O’Laughlin shared her thoughts: “Ken was a wonderful man and a true asset to the volleyball community. He was truly passionate about the game and his players.“
A visitation for Uhlir will be held on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester.
Whereas, a funeral Mass is scheduled for Wednesday, April 23, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Francis Xavier Church, 124 N. Spring, La Grange, followed by a private interment.
During this ordeal, we offer our condolences to Uhlir’s wife, kids, and extended family members.
