Kenneth “Ken” Raphael Kempen, 73, De Pere, passed away at St. Vincent Hospital on Monday, August 10, 2026. He was born on November 22, 1952, to the late Marvin and Olive (Kleuskens) Kempen.

Ken graduated from Abbot Pennings High School in 1971. For two years Ken served in the Army Reserve. On August 19, 1989, he was united in marriage to Sue Gonnering.

Ken was the Lead Painter at PCMC for 37 years and belonged to a local car club.

He is survived by his wife Sue, stepdaughter Amy PagenKopf, as well as his siblings; Randy (Jan) Kempen, Clarice Ann Konshak, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents, brother-in-law Jerome Konshak, and his in-laws Ralph and Elaine (Zimmerman) Gonnering.

Friends may call at Ryan Funeral Home 305 N Tenth Street, De Pere from 10:00AM – 12:00PM Tuesday, August 18, 2026. A service for Ken will take place at 11:30AM.

Special Thank you to the Nurses and staff at St Vincent Hospital and Hospice. A special thank you to Tina, and Ken’s guardians at N.E.W.