Kenneth James Rynes, Sr.

Kenneth James Rynes Sr., 75, of Richland Center, died, Sunday, November 15, 2020 after a brief illness. He was born November 28, 1944 in Richland Center, WI the son of Joseph and Agnes (Nachtigal) Rynes. Ken grew up in Yuba and graduated from Richland Center High School in 1962. On December 1, 1962 he was united in marriage to Barbara (Manley). Ken had an early career in construction before he found his way to the Consumer’s Cooperative in Richland Center. Ken worked at the Consumer’s Cooperative for 41 years and was known to be a dedicated employee – having only been late to work once. While at the Consumer’s Cooperative, Ken enjoyed driving the TerraGator and being featured in local parades. Ken enjoyed spending time with friends through bowling, horseshoes, bingo, time at the casino, and playing cards. Ken liked to garden and in recent years he began canning and pickling the fruits of his harvest. Ken did not travel to exotic places because he loved spending his time traveling the winding roads of Richland County and the surrounding area – the roads from his youth, his career, and his life. Ken enjoyed spending time with his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was an avid supporter of their events. He was never known to come to visit family without candy or coins for the little ones. Ken is survived by his five children: Kenneth (Ann) Rynes Jr. of Richland Center, Michael (Monica) Rynes of Richland Center, Darcey Varese of Stoughton, Tammy West of Lavalle, Deanna (Dennis) DiCarlantonio of Madison; twelve grandchildren: Brittany (Adam) Niemeyer, Celia (Zach) Zeman, Dalton (Lindsay) Spencer, Adam, Abigail, and Elise Rynes, Nathan and Nicole Varese, John and Bradley West, Isabella and Sirio DiCarlantonio; nine great-grandchildren; brother, Joseph Rynes; special companion Pat Turnipseed, nieces, nephews, and many special friends. Ken was preceded in death by his wife Barbara Rynes, parents Joseph and Agnes (Nachtigal) Rynes, siblings Marvelene Sebranek, Stella Spears, and Alice Bahr. Ken’s family would like to thank the health care workers at the Richland Hospital and Sauk County Health Center for their tireless efforts in providing care and assistance during this challenging time. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 20, 2020 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM. Burial will be held in the Czech National Cemetery on Saturday, November 21, 2020 at 11:00 AM. The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.