The demolition of a landmark Kirkwood, MO, home is moving ahead after opponents lost a legal battle to prevent it. The Marquitz-Garesche House, built in 1858 and named after William Marquitz and Charles A. Garesche, was purchased by health startup CEO Harlan "Harlee" Sorkin and his wife, Annelle, for $635,000 in 2025. The application for a demolition permit was submitted to the Kirkwood Landmarks Commission and Architectural Board in May 2025. Sorksin cited issues with the electric system, lead water pipes, and lead paint as reasons for the decision to demolish the historic property. The potential demolition sparked outrage among many neighbors, with one claiming it would "continue to threaten the remaining historic homes and structures" in Kirkwood.