Kenneth H. Gerken

Kenneth H. Gerken “Curly”, age 84, passed away on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at New Perspective Senior Living | Island Shores in Neenah. Ken, son of the late Archie and Fern (Henthorn) Gerken, was born on November 22, 1939, in Sylvan Township, Richland County, Wisconsin.

Ken began a military career directly after high school, spending six years of active duty in the Navy before transitioning into the Navy Reserve and, later, the Army Reserve. He was very proud of his service to his country. Ken was employed for the Coca-Cola Corporation for over 30 years, working as their fleet manager until his retirement. He also held several part-time jobs on the side, including being a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Neenah, as well as a bus driver for the Neenah School District.

One of Ken’s favorite pastimes was to meet up with the guys for coffee at the local McDonalds a few mornings a week. He also enjoyed traveling to the Fireside Theater in Fort Atkinson with his wife, Shirley, for dinner and a show. He was an avid reader and spent hours on end sitting in his favorite chair, with a book or newspaper in his hands, his beloved “mutt” Missy at his feet and country music playing in the background. Ken was a man of all trades. He could fix just about anything, from large machines to intricate pieces of jewelry. In his spare time, he would build all kinds of things out of wood. He also liked cooking and adding memorabilia to his vast Coca-Cola collection.

Ken is survived by his daughters: Pam (Wayne) Dehnert, Gail (Ed) Bielinski, Randee (Ebi) Herzog, Laurie (Mike) Drexler; son, Scott Loos;  grandchildren: Joshua (Jennifer) Dehnert, Joel (Carrie) Theder, Erin (Craig) Hanus, Nicolas (Mimi) Herzog; great grandchildren: Alex Garza, Trey Theder, Layla Theder, Lilyana Theder, Elliot Hanus, Ellie Herzog, Benny Herzog; as well as many nieces and nephews and other friends and family members.

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley (McClone) Gerken of 48 years; brother, Ralph Gerken; sister, Janet Gerken; granddaughter, Jackie Theder; son, Jim Loos; and his parents.

Per Ken’s wishes a private family service will be held.

The family would like to thank the staff at New Perspective and ThedaCare Hospice, for all the care and compassion given to Ken.