Kimberly Ann Hrycenko, known affectionately to those who loved her as "Kimmy," departed this life unexpectedly on February 17, 2026, at a residence in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Born on August 16, 1973, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, she was 52 years old.
Kimberly was the beloved daughter of JoAnn Glem and Tony Glem. From a young age, she possessed a spirited and memorable personality. Her mother, JoAnn, playfully gave her the nickname "Hairpin," a unique moniker that followed her well into adulthood and always brought a smile to those who knew her best.
Her natural inclination toward empathy and caring for others led her to a career in healthcare. Kimberly worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant for many years, where her compassion touched the lives of many patients. She also pursued nursing school for a time, driven by her genuine desire to help those in need. During her life, she was married to Andrew Hrycenko for fourteen years. Together they welcomed two beautiful children, Nicholas and Emily, who remained the center of her world.
Kimberly was a woman of many layers. She was a fighter who faced life's challenges with resilience, yet she maintained an incredibly sweet nature. Friends and family knew her as funny, smart, and deeply comforting. She possessed a rare gift for making others feel safe, offering a listening ear and an open heart that was entirely free of judgment.
In her leisure time, Kimberly found immense joy in simple, peaceful pleasures. She had a creative spirit that she expressed through arts and crafts, as well as gardening and cooking. She was a true animal lover who enjoyed hanging out with her cats. One of her favorite ways to spend a day was sitting on her back deck with a warm cup of coffee, quietly watching the birds and feeding the squirrels that visited her yard. She also found solace in nature and would walk by the local pond almost daily to feed the geese.
Kimberly was a woman of faith and was involved with St. John's Lutheran Church in Reedsburg, Wisconsin. She held her spiritual beliefs close to her heart.
Kimberly is survived by her loving children, Nicholas Hrycenko and Emily Hrycenko; her Grandson, Benjamin Hrycenko; her mother, JoAnn Glem and Stepfather, Tony Glem; and her brothers, Darrin Willette and Don Willette. She was preceded in death by her sister, Sherri Cassem, with whom she is now reunited.
The family will release details regarding a funeral or memorial service at a later date.
Kimberly had a strong love for her friends and family, a love that will endure in their memories. She continues onto her next heavenly journey with a smile on her face as she watches down on her loved ones.