Kenneth Theodore Kildahl, a devoted father, and beloved grandfather, passed away peacefully on Oct. 8, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on Nov. 4, 1944, in Wisconsin. Kenny embodied the spirit of the Midwest, filled with resilience, and warmth.
Kenny was a dedicated service member of six years, with two years active duty and four years in the reserves. He often found solace in the outdoors and with his animals, which later inspired him to cultivate a hobby farm in Hager City, Wis. Kenny enjoyed gardening, fishing, working in the shop and visiting his favorite Mexican restaurant. He loved his classic Westerns, International tractors, and Saturday morning cartoons.
Kenny spent many dedicated years as a metal fabricator at Twin Cities Metal Fab where he worked with a few of his brothers. He was always ready for a good conversation and coffee with friends. His nurturing spirit, playful heart, and gentle guidance left an indelible mark on our lives.
Kenny is survived by his beloved children, Linda Kildahl and Sherri Purdy; grandchildren, Averiana Norman, Brandon Purdy, and Izzy Purdy; ex-wife, LuCinda Peterson; stepchildren, Nathan Marek and family, Abbie Marek and family; sisters, Elizabeth Melstrom, Polly Klingensmith, Jeanette Welty, and Norma Holst; brothers, Howard Kildahl, Teddy Kildahl, Dennis Kildahl, and Wayne Kildahl.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Theodore and Petra Kildahl; baby sister, and many other loved ones.
A celebration of Ken’s life will be held on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, at O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 1010 Newton St., Baldwin, Wis. Memorial service at 11 a.m., with a visitation one hour prior. He will be laid to rest next to his parents at Sunset Cemetery, Woodville, Wis.
Funeral services are entrusted to O’Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Baldwin. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or 715-684-3434
