Kenneth O Kirchner, Sr.

Chilton WI

Kenneth O. “Ken” Kirchner, Sr., age 75, of Chilton, died on Sunday, May 14, 2023 at his home in the Town of Rantoul.  He was born July 23, 1947 in West Bend, son of the late Marvin & Lila (Butzlaff) Kirchner. 

Ken proudly served in the United States Army from 1966 until 1972. during the Vietnam War.  Following his honorable discharge, he married Rosanne Thompson on April 17, 1971 in West Bend, Wisconsin.  The couple farmed together in Theresa and Dotyville shortly following their marriage for a number of years.  Ken also was the first employee for Ottery Transportation where he drove for over 30 years and was given a company award for being able to drive truck while standing because of his height.  He has been enjoying retirement since 2017  

Ken was well known for his work ethic and he never sat still long enough to let the grass grow under his feet.  In his free time, he enjoyed shooting trap and pool and moments spent bowling with his wife.  His family appreciated his willingness to tinker on vehicles with his son and grandsons because nobody had to take their vehicle to the shop for repairs.  

Survivors include his wife: Rose; children: Brenda (Patrick) Stephany, Kenneth (Jennifer) Kirchner, Jr., 7 grandchildren: James Uhlig & his significant other, Markita, Martin Uhlig, Mitchell Uhlig and his significant other, Karissa, Jordyn Uhlig and his significant other, Courtney, Makaya Kirchner, Ayden Kirchner, Mia Kirchner; 2 great grandchildren: Maverick Uhlig, Hayden Kawa; his sister: Shirley (Walter) Schuster; and his siblings-in-law: Christine (Bud) Zimmer, Timothy Thompson, Katheryn (Tom) Junger, Gerald Thompson, Donna Thompson & April Thompson.  He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; his parents-in-law: Arthur & Harriet Thompson; and his brothers-in-law: Ned Thompson and Mark Thompson.  

Funeral service will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at the Wieting Family Funeral Home (411 W. Main St.) in Chilton with Rev. Phillip Enderle, Pastor of Hope Lutheran in Fond du Lac, officiating.  A time of visitation will take place at the funeral home from 9:00 am until 10:45 am on Saturday, May 20, 2023. Those wishing to watch a livestream or archived recording of the service, view a memorial video, or see flowers and gifts given to the family may do so by clicking HERE.  

Ken's family would like to extend tremendous thanks to everyone at Compasus Hospice for all of the loving care that was shown to both Ken and his entire family.