Kenneth Marks

MADISON - Kenneth Marks, age 62, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2013, at UW Hospital. Ken was born in Lafayette, Indiana to James and Marilyn (Kaul) Marks. He grew up in Madison, the oldest of four boys, the Marks Brothers. Ken attended UW Madison and UW Milwaukee, earning a degree in Architecture, and worked for several architectural firms on the East Coast. He enjoyed living in large urban areas with their vibrancy, life and cultural opportunities. He lived in Milwaukee, Boston, Washington DC and New Jersey, returning to Madison in 2001 to work at Flad and Associates. He retired in 2008.
Ken was intelligent, sometimes outspoken, and proud to be a gay man. He was interested in many things, including his Scandinavian heritage. He did considerable research on his heritage and gathered valuable information for his family. Ken enjoyed travel, movies, opera, theater, stimulating conversation and good food. He lived with HIV and Hepatitis C for many years; a recent stroke coupled with his illnesses led to his passing. His approach to life and strength of will enabled him to survive his illnesses much longer than expected and allowed him to continue living in his home until the end.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents James and Marilyn; step-mother June; and partner Kenneth Hale Weiman. He is survived by his brothers, Jon, David (Kathy Cruice) and Robert; former sister-in-law Sue Marks; step-brother David (Carol) Belt; and nieces and nephews Greg, Kirsten, Justin and Lauren. He leaves behind many friends in Boston, Washington DC, New Jersey, Milwaukee, Madison and elsewhere.
Ken requested that any gathering in his memory be low key and celebratory in nature as a remembrance of the joy he had from life here and on the East Coast. Thus, his celebration will be held on Wednesday, February 20th, at CRESS FUNERAL HOME on Speedway Road in Madison. Visitation will be from 10:00 -11:00 AM, with a memorial service at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Pastor Pat Siegler. A light lunch will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Human Rights Campaign Foundation or a charity of the donor's choice.