Kenneth Michael Urbik

Kenneth Michael Urbik passed away on September 23rd just shy of his 75th birthday after a long battle with Primary Progressive Aphasia and Dementia.

Ken was born and raised in the Chicago area. His love for war gaming, trains, space and military history sparked many lively discussions and gatherings. Whether delving into the intricacies of historical battles or exploring the vast expanse of space, Ken's enthusiasm was infectious. He loved sci-fi, astronomy and his man cave. Ken had a special appreciation for opera, but also loved the Beatles, Moody Blues and Fleetwood Mac and other artists of that era. His artistic side flourished in his enthusiasm in painting his military models and especially the astronomy-themed art that captured the beauty of the cosmos.

A long standing employee of 3M in both Chicago and the Twin Cities, Ken retired in 2009 after 40 years, making many life long friends during his career. His love of computers and the newest technology served him well.

Ken and his wife Joanne recently celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary. Their love of road trips took them across the country including trips out west, trips to visit extended family, many visits to Disney, Chicago for his favorite pizza and the family cabin in Michigan. Fair Week at the cabin was always a favorite time for the extended family to get together. Ken loved animals, especially dogs, rescuing many over the years from CoCo’s Heart. You would often find him busy in his man cave or game room with at least one to two pups watching him work.

Ken will be deeply missed by his wife Joanne, his children Stefani (Nathaniel) Mishica, Kevin Urbik, Kraig (Emily) Urbik; grandchildren Ethan, Eleanora, Julia, Harrison, and Hayden; special cousin Donna (Bob) Cusack and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bruno & Eleanora, stepfather Angelo Paone; parents-in-law Frank & Blanche Hiter; nephew Daniel Hiter.

Memorial Gathering 11 AM – 1PM Monday September 29 at O’Connell Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St., Hudson. In lieu of flowers memorials to St. Jude’s’s Childrens Hospital.