Kenneth S. Bent

Kenneth S. Bent, 72 of Watertown formerly of Madison, passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family.

Ken was born December 3, 1951, in Wisconsin, the son of Gerald and Juanita (Newman) Bent. On January 23, 2003, he married Lisa Piddington and the couple shared 21 treasured years together.  The family will cherish the many fine and outstanding qualities that Ken had. He was the first Black man for the State of Wisconsin to work as a heavy equipment operator for 30 years. Ken’s favorite passion was teaching and competing in Martial Arts for over 50 years. He won many grand championships. Thousands of student’s lives have been greatly impacted by his guidance. Ken was also a full blown ‘golf addict’. He brought his teaching skills to the golf course thus mentoring other golfers. And if he wasn’t perfect, he knew better than anyone how to beat himself up. Ken also won titles in Las Vegas pool tournaments. He coached football, and particularly enjoyed basketball, something that he shared with many of his grandsons. There was no one else who could match his rib sauce as a famous Madison restaurant owner hired him to make batches for a large party. Ken was the rib KING! His voice was loud, commanding, and his laughter boomed with great humor. It was a delight to watch his tears of laughter that rolled over him to the ground.

Ken is survived by: his wife Lisa; children Shannon Bent, Jessica Rhodes, Sherron (Jennifer) Bent, Calen (Carrie) Bent, Kianna Bent, and Sarah (Griffin) Jimieson; grandchildren Ontario (Shareika) Fraizer, Anton Rhodes, Natalia Sanders, Mikalah Seay, Mya Seay, Cazhmere Rhodes, Monteja Telfered, Kavon Bent, Taliyah Collins, Camden Bent, Kylin Bent, Cadin Bent, Calen Bent Jr., and Cashton Bent; and 12 great-grandchildren; siblings Gerald, Margaret, Barbara, Alice, Tracy, Eunice, and Clifford. Ken is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents, and brothers Clymouth, Eddie and Herbert.  

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 PM on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Calvary Baptist Church of Watertown with Rev. Dr. Robert J. Loggans presiding. Visitation will be held from 1:00 PM until the time of service at the church.