Kenneth "Ken" J. Lemke, 82, Plover, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2024 at his home.

Ken was born on March 26, 1941 in Wisconsin Rapids to Ernest and Marion (Jefferson) Lemke. He graduated from Pittsville High School in 1959. Ken served in the United States Navy from 1959-61 and the reserves until 1965. He was united in marriage to Doris Frost on July 6, 1963 in Pittsville.

Ken loved spending time with family and friends. He liked watching his children's and grandson's activities and valued the many friendships made through them. Ken enjoyed the outdoors especially bird hunting, fishing, deer hunting and camping. Other favorite activities included: cribbage, class reunions, bag toss, basketball, and rooting for the Badgers, Brewers, Bucks, and Packers. Ken worked for Consolidated Papers for 40+ years in Wisconsin Rapids and at River Division. He started as a mill worker and found his passion as a safety supervisor, later retiring as a senior safety coordinator. In retirement, Ken enjoyed winters with family and friends in Port Aransas, Texas.

He is survived by his wife Doris, daughter Tracey (David) Lemke Schleihs, and grandson Preston Schleihs, both of Stevens Point.

He was preceded in death by his son Timothy Lemke, father Ernest, mother Marion, step-mother Mildred (Keuntjes) Lemke, brother Robert Lemke, step-brother Carl Keuntjes, and many relatives of the Lemke and Frost families.

A memorial service will be held in the Spring.