Killian James Kvalvik, age 21, passed away at his home in Appleton on June 15, 2017. Killian was born September 12, 1995 in Neenah, Wisconsin to Prerna Kvalvik and James Kvalvik. He attended Appleton area schools where he excelled academically, most notably in mathematics.
While exceedingly intelligent, Killian was a humble young man. His beautiful smile, deep brown eyes and endearing laugh will be missed by everyone who loved him.
As a high school student, Killian took additional math classes at the University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley and Lawrence University. Following his 2012 graduation from Appleton North High School, he furthered his education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in mathematics in December 2015. Killian also possessed a strong interest in linguistics, including the study of Mandarin and Russian.
Killian furthered his passion for social justice while living and working in Madison. He spent countless hours volunteering for organizations and issues he believed in, including increasing the minimum wage, free college education for everyone, universal health care and the Black Lives Matter movement. The essence of Killian's complex personality was his ability to possess a tremendously gentle spirit while being a fierce advocate for people who are oppressed, to be soft-spoken while audacious as a debater. While he loved to learn, Killian also loved to teach. He tutored many students who benefited from his knowledge, his patience and his kindness.
Killian is survived by his extraordinarily devoted mother, Prerna, and his sister, Anastasia (Ana), whom he adored and admired. He is further survived by his maternal grandmother, Kalpana Kaul, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. The family would like to thank the teachers and mentors who nurtured Killian's academic gifts.
A memorial service for Killian will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 22, 2017 at FOX VALLEY UNIVERSALIST UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP, 2600 E Philip Lane, Appleton, with the Rev. Leah Hart-Landsberg officiating. There will be a visitation at the Fellowship on Thursday, June 22 from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service. Refreshments will be served following the service. Online condolences are also appreciated at www.wichmannfargo.com
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Killian's name. Contributions can be made to the fund at the Old National Bank, W3160 County Road KK, Appleton WI 54915.