Kenneth Wilder

Kenneth Alfred Wilder, 75, of Rochester, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017, at his home.

Ken was born Aug. 27, 1941, in Olmsted County to Lewis J. and Violet E. (Schuchard) Wilder. He was a graduate of John Marshall High School. On May 25, 1963, Ken married Sharon Day. He spent his career working as a crop and livestock farmer as well as a seed salesman for Jacques Seed and Producers Hybrid seed. He enjoyed playing cards, going to auctions and collecting many things, including belt buckles, pocket knives, hats and anything John Deere! Ken loved people, visiting and having a good time. He always saw the best in everyone and everything. Ken was a kind and generous man. Ken was a member of the Rochester Eagles, Corn Growers and Peace United Church of Christ.

Ken is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Sharon; son, Mark (Gloria) Wilder of Rochester; sister, Darlene Foster of Rochester; brothers, Dennis Wilder of Rochester, Lewis (Carole) Wilder of Hastings, Minn., and John (Lois) Wilder of Sun City, Ariz; sisters-in-law, Cheryl (Dean) Pederson of Rochester, and Linda Grover of Rochester; granddaughter, Ashley; stepgranddaughter, Trisha Christopherson; stepgreat-grandchildren, Baylee, Rhiannon, Emma, Ava, and Tucker; and stepgreat-great-grandchildren, Ashton and Nolan; and several nieces and nephews. Ken was preceded in death by his son, Keith; brother, Gerald "Juke," and his parents.

A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Monday, Jan. 23, at Peace United Church of Christ, 103 Second Ave. NE, Rochester. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22, at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, and one hour prior to the service at the church. The Rev. Paul Bauch will be officiating with inurnment at Elgin Cemetery at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Peace U.C.C. or to the charity of donors choice. 

To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com