Ken H. Link made his final transition to our Lord in the morning hours of Oct. 1, 2026 in Woodville, Wis., surrounded by his loving family.
He spent the last 22 years living on a hobby farm in Woodville with his wife, Harriet. They were united in marriage in Sioux Falls, S.D. in 1970 and lived in Des Moines, Iowa. They raised their two sons in Roberts and River Falls, Wis.
Ken was born in Monticello, Minn. on Dec. 5, 1949. He was a graduate of Hastings High School and started his education at St. Cloud State University pursuing a veterinarian degree. He left St. Cloud State University early after receiving a job offer to follow his true passion of becoming a professional horse trainer.
Throughout his career, Ken trained and showed horses at an elite level for distinguished amateur and youth clients throughout the country. During his horse career he also served as an AQHA judge for 10 years traveling the entire country, including the prolific World Show in 1995. He had a unique ability to connect with people (but not always with appropriate language), whether in the horse industry or his dear lunch buddies that he reminisced with about the “old days.” He was also very passionate about college football, rodeos, horse races, creating Kentucky Derby boards and his infamous chili. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him (and could put up with him)!
He loved to spend quality time with family and friends. Ken is survived by his wife, Harriet Link, son, Cody Link (Kelly), brother, Jeff Link (Beth), and sisters Marilyn Stricker (Randy), Kathy Stricker, Laurie Brausen (Jim), Diane Leighty (Glen), and Annette Watson (Steve). He is also survived by brothers-in-law, Jim Dyer, Dennis Dyer (Susan), and Wayne Jensen; daughter-in-law, Sara Anderson, and his grandchildren, Colton Link (Brita), Jack Berge (19) and Morgan Berge (17). He was preceded in death by his father, Wayne Link, mother, Joan (“Mugsey”) Link, father and mother-in-law, Edwin and Eileen Dyer, son, Craig Link, brother, Tony Link, brother-in-law, Dennis Stricker and sister-in-law, Deanna Jensen.
A service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 10, at Bakken-Young Funeral Home (805 E Division St., River Falls), followed by lunch, with a visitation at 10 a.m., prior to the service. In honor of his final wishes Ken’s ashes will be buried alongside his son, Craig, in River Falls, at Greenwood Cemetery.
While our hearts mourn the loss, we take comfort in knowing Ken is pain-free in heaven and reconnecting with all of his loved ones that have previously passed.
Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the family.
