Kenneth Suchan

Kenneth "Ken" Suchan, 83, of Kiel, passed away peacefully on Friday evening, January 24, 2025, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Ken was born on April 23, 1941, in Reedsville, the son of the late Miles and Florence (Wacek) Suchan.
On April 24, 1965, Ken married the love of his life, Sue E. Taylor, at Zion Lutheran Church in New Holstein, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and shared adventures.
Ken's entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his own family business, Ken's Septic Service, in 1976. His hard work, dedication, and strong work ethic were evident in everything he did, from running the business to holding full-time positions at Vinton Construction, Household Utilities, Fries von Kiel, and the City of Kiel. His children had the privilege of working alongside him in the family business over the years, and they are deeply grateful for his guidance and mentorship. The family business, Ken's Septic Service, will continue to operate, honoring Ken's legacy and dedication to hard work and service.
He was a graduate of Chilton High School, Class of 1959, and a member of the Chilton High School boys' basketball team that proudly became the Eastern Wisconsin Conference basketball champions of 1958-1959.
Ken was also an active member of the community, often found sharing stories and laughter while working at local picnics, dances, and weddings. His role as a Manitowoc County Sheriff's Deputy and Kiel Police Reserve allowed him to interact with countless friends and neighbors, and he was always happy to reminisce about his time serving the community.
During the winter months, Ken enjoyed retreating to his workshop, where he spent hours crafting beautiful birdhouses and woodwork. These handmade treasures reflected his creativity, patience, and love for simple pleasures.
Ken's family was his pride and joy. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sue (Taylor) Suchan; his son, Brian (Melissa) Suchan of Kiel; his daughters, Wendy (Dean) Lax of Brownsville and Amanda (Jake Webber) Pingel of New Holstein; his cherished grandchildren, Emily and Elizabeth Suchan, Jacob and Lucas Lax, and Weston Pingel; and his brother, Gary Suchan of Reedsville. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, friends, and his loyal dog and riding companion, Finley.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Donald (Pauline) Suchan, Robert (Rosie) Suchan; sister-in-law Margaret Suchan; and his sister, Beverly (Daniel) Geiger.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Kiel Fire and Rescue for their unwavering support and assistance. They are also deeply grateful to the Sheboygan Aurora staff, and a special thank you to the Interventional Radiology Department for their compassionate care. Ken always looked forward to his Friday visits with the team in the IR department, and they brought him great comfort in his final months.
A life celebration in Ken's honor will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at the Altona Supper Club in New Holstein from 11am to 3pm.
Ken's legacy of hard work, family devotion, and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.