Kenneth Charles Misudek

Ken Misudek, age 81, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2026. Ken was born on July 15, 1945, to Isabelle (Lang) and Henry Misudek. He was raised on the family farm in Marathon County near Athens, Wisconsin, where he developed a strong appreciation for family, hard work, and his Wisconsin roots. Ken graduated from Athens High School in 1963. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree, three associate degrees, and several certificates through Northcentral Technical College and the University of Wisconsin–Platteville. Ken proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War era, stationed in Stuttgart, Germany. He specialized in cryptographic coding machines, an experience that combined his technical abilities with his dedication to serving his country. Following his military service, Ken began a long and distinguished career with IBM, where he worked as a Computer Service Technician. After 50 years and 25 days of dedicated service, he retired, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional technical knowledge and commitment. Throughout his career, Ken received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his expertise, dedication, and outstanding contributions to IBM. On June 1, 1980, Ken married Susan “Sue” Stollfus. Together, they shared 46 years of marriage, building a life filled with family, love, laughter, and many cherished memories. Ken had a lifelong love of cars and enjoyed working on projects of all kinds. He was especially proud to own two Corvettes, a 1987 and a 2008. He was naturally curious, mechanically minded, and always willing to put his skills to work. His knowledge and generosity extended beyond his career, and he took great pleasure in providing more than 160 computers and technical support to those in need. Ken is survived by his loving wife, Sue; his three sons, Jim (Jessica), Danny, and Mark (Tori); and his two grandchildren, Thomas and Aubrey. Ken will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, his commitment to his career, his love of cars and projects, and his quick wit and infectious laughter. He touched many lives throughout his 81 years and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Ken and Sue would especially like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Blada and Bucher families for their support, comfort, calls, and cards; to Ken’s fellow IBMers, Mark, Bill, Rusty, Rudy, Tom, Jerry, Dwight, and many others, for the lunches, calls, friendship, and continued connection; to Ken’s cousin Joan and her daughters for their love and support; to the Veterans Coffee Group for their friendship, companionship, and memorable car rides; and to the Athens High School Class of 1963 for their lasting friendship and support. Ken and Sue are also deeply grateful to SSM Health In-Home Hospice Care, especially Kari and Peggy, for the compassionate care, comfort, and kindness provided to Ken and the family. Those wishing to honor Ken’s memory may make a memorial donation in his name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. A Celebration of Life honoring Ken will be held on Sunday, September 13 at South Hills Golf & Country Club from 1:00–4:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather, celebrate, and share memories of a life well lived.

Kenneth Charles Misudek

July 15, 1945 - August 30, 2026