Age 83, of Sussex, WI, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2025.

 

Ken was born and raised in Milwaukee, the beloved son of the late Ken and Lillian Peterson. After proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force for four years while stationed in Germany, he returned home and began a career in the printing industry—where he met the love of his life, Barbara. Together, they built a beautiful family and shared a marriage filled with love, laughter, and devotion.

 

Ken will be dearly missed by his wife Barbara; his children Pamela (Scott) Christensen, Christine (Patrick) Ciganek, and Lisa (Joey) Lopez; and his grandchildren Cadence Ciganek, Liam Ciganek, Hope Lopez, and Noelle Lopez. He is further survived by his siblings Peg (Vaughn) Trudell, Jim (Kathy) Peterson, Joe (Nida) Peterson, and Laura (Jerry) Kurz, as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Sue Schaller.

 

A man deeply connected to his community, Ken was active in the Lannon Lions Club, the American Legion of Menomonee Falls, and served as a driver for the Disabled American Veterans. He was a proud Catholic and longtime member of St. James Catholic Church.

 

Ken’s hobbies and passions were many, but nothing brought him greater joy than music. A gifted accordion player, he loved sharing his music with others and never passed up a chance to play. Over the years, he helped form and perform in two family bands—The Rainbow of Sound and Generations—keeping music and family at the heart of his life. Ken especially loved Polka music and his accordion which helped him uplift spirits and made him the life of the party. He also enjoyed bowling, golf, and a good game of sheepshead.

 

Ken was always ready with a joke or a story that left everyone laughing. His quick wit was his trademark, and he had an uncanny ability to turn ordinary moments into joyful ones. To his family and friends, he wasn’t just a husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend—he was the one who could lift spirits and brighten even the hardest days. His laughter, music, and love will forever remain a part of us.

 

A visitation will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home (W250 N6505 Hwy 164 Sussex, WI 53089) from 11am until time of service at 2pm.