Kenneth J. Resch

Kenneth J. Resch, of Menasha and later Minocqua and Neenah, passed away peacefully Sunday, December 14, 2025. He was born on March 16, 1939, to Clarence and Margaret (Hornke) Resch. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and perseverance.

Raised in Menasha, Ken spent most of his life in the community that shaped him. He graduated from St. Mary High School where he was a gifted athlete. He was known for his remarkable football prowess, earning admiration for his skills. He was inducted into the St. Mary Hall of Fame in 1992. His passion for athletics carried through his life, inspiring his children and grandchildren to pursue their own endeavors with the same determination.

For 67 years, he shared a bond with his wife, Mary (Hildebrandt) Resch, and together they raised six children. His family was his greatest pride, and he cherished moments spent with them.

Ken dedicated 35 years of his life working for four different companies at the Washington Street Plant in Menasha. He took on many roles and always appreciated a challenge. To support his growing family, he also took on countless side jobs, embodying a work ethic rooted in humility and determination.

After retiring, he fulfilled his dream of living on the water in Minocqua, where he enjoyed the tranquility of the Northwoods. Whether by casting a line, watching the sunset over the lake, or welcoming family for visits, he found joy in the simple beauty of life and socializing with others.

One of Ken’s favorite activities was to hunt down grocery bargains and share them with family and anyone within ear shot. The Pig and Kwik Trip were his favorite destinations. He was also known for his story telling and analysis of the daily news. His wisdom and knowledge will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, their children, Marie (Don) Hermus, Katie Resch (Frank Zink), Paul (Kerry) Resch, Ellen (Terry) Jack, and Julie (Jim) Barge. Surviving grandchildren include Emily (Andy) Langer, Abby (Dustin) Varick, Daniel Zink, Monica Zink, Karyn Brackney, Mark (Katie) Resch, Andy (Melanie) Resch, Katie (Nathan) Daggett, Joel (Gwenyth) Resch, Nathan (Mackenzie) Jack, Griffin (Madeline) Jack, Peyton (Grace) Jack, Christian (Sydney) Jack, Amanda (Brian) Pagel, Ian (Linh) Barge, and Kyla Barge. He has 18 great-grandchildren with three more on the way. He is also survived by a brother Jerry (Pat) Resch and in-laws Barb Resch, Thomas (Louise) Hildebrandt, Gary Vanden Heuvel, and Vicki Hickinbotham and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his oldest son, John, his parents, sisters Clarice (Bernie) Oudeans, Carol (Keith) Hintze, Ruth Ann (Dennis) Hintze, and a brother Lawrence Resch and sisters-in-law Jean Hildebrandt and Linda Vanden Heuvel.

The family would like to thank Terry and Lyn Baumgartner for all their help and for being amazing friends and neighbors. Also, thank you to Jennifer from Right at Home, Yesenia from Bristol Hospice, Dr. Curtis Baltz, Dr. Michael Beckett, and Dr. Osaid Ahmad for their care and support of Ken.

A celebration of his life will be held at Wichmann Laemmrich Funeral Home in Menasha, January 17, 2025, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The service will start at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Mary Catholic High School.