Kenneth R. Kasten

Kenneth R. Kasten 65, Weston, died Friday January 7, 2011 at home under the care of Ministry Home Care Hospice, surrounded by his family. Ken was born April 1, 1945 in Schofield, son of the late Leonard and Hattie (Borchardt) Kasten. He married Diane Rothenberger on November 2, 1968 at St. Anne Catholic Church in Wausau. She survives. Ken is survived by his wife Diane, sisters; Arletta (Merlyn) Kamke, Schofield, Bonnie (Lyle) Nass, Green Bay, brothers; Jim (Judi) Kasten, Wausau, Dave (Gene) Kasten, Schofield, sisters-in-law; Angie Degner, Rhinelander, Esther Lippert, Loyal and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents he was preceded in death by his mother-in-law, Angeline (Rothenberger) Jagla. Ken served in the Army National Guard of Wisconsin from 1965 thru 1971. In 1967 the Wausau National Guard Unit was activated and deployed to Madison to control rioting in protest of the Vietnam War. Ken graduated from Wausau Technical Institute with a two year degree in auto mechanics and embarked on a career working for Dave Kasten Motors as an auto mechanic and later as a professional sales representative. Ken was a very active, happy and energetic person with (too) many hobbies and interests (sometimes causing much strain on Diane but with great love she abided). He was a great innovator and handyman and was always exploring new interest (sometimes to Diane's chagrin). Ken was a very kind person and had a great sense of humor and a knack for making people laugh. His attitude toward people and life was superb. He will be missed by all who had the opportunity of knowing him. He was a wonderful loving husband and Diane's very best FOREVER FRIEND. Ken especially loved spending time with his two dogs, Lady (Bug) and Pugsley (Uggie) whom he loved so dearly. Memorial services will be at 11:00 a.m. Thursday January 13, 2011 at St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Schofield. The Rev. Ryan C. Wolfe will officiate. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services Thursday at the church. The family of Kenneth would like to extend a heartfelt "thank you" to Dr. Fontanini, and Linda (his nurse) and Deb and Dana (the hospice nurses) for the kindness and concern shown to Ken and the family. In leiu of flowers a memorial has been established in Kenneth's name. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com