Kenneth John Kennedy

Kenneth (Ken) Kennedy (86) of Madison, Wisconsin passed away November 10th, 2025.

Ken was born in Beaver Dam in 1938 to Clara and Joseph. He grew up in Watertown and graduated high school in 1957. Throughout high school and college he worked at Mullins Dairy to support himself. He met Sharon, his wife of 60 years, in high school and they married in 1960. He went to the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater for college and graduated in three and a half years with an education degree. He went on to get master’s degrees from Eastern Michigan University and University of Wisconsin - Madison, both also in education. He was an elementary and middle school teacher in Madison for 35 years.

In his spare time, Ken had several hobbies. For many years he enjoyed wood working and made beautiful furniture for his family and friends. He liked the challenge of oil painting. Many of his paintings are landscapes, but he also painted chickens. It brought him joy to gift these chicken paintings to his family, all of whom have one hanging somewhere in their homes. He enjoyed playing poker with his friends and teaching his grandchildren. They have fond memories of playing with him.

In addition, Ken and Sharon loved spending time with family and friends. They took many trips over the years. Their favorite destinations were Longboat Key, Florida; Jackson Hole, Wyoming and Ogunquit, Maine. They made special memories over the years in these places, especially Longboat and the Tetons. These vacations inspired their children to make frequent trips to similar locations with their own families.

Ken is survived by his children Julie Kennedy, Scott Kennedy (Debbie), Todd Kennedy; grandchildren Mark, Orion, Garrett, James and Jake; loved ones Cathy Michael and Vicki Kennedy. He is also survived by his brother-in-law and sister-in-law Peter and Marlene Grosse and many loving nieces, nephews and their families. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sharon.

The family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers at St. Mary’s Hospital and Agrace Hospice for their thoughtful care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation or a charity of your choice.

Please join us for a celebration of Ken’s life at Vintage Brewing Company at 674 South Whitney Way on Sunday, December 28 from 1pm-5pm.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434