Kenneth Edward Wilkens

Kenneth Edward Wilkens of Random Lake passed away peacefully on Saturday, Aug.22, 2026, at the age of 73.

Ken lived with curiosity, determination and an adventurous spirit, always ready to pursue a new idea, fix what needed fixing or share a story with the people he loved. He was a social butterfly with a generous heart, a natural mechanical ability and a zest for life that made him unforgettable to those who knew him.

Ken was born the beloved son of Walter and Gladys (nee Roell) Wilkens. He attended grade school in Waubeka and graduated from Port Washington High School in 1970.

Over the years, he worked a variety of jobs before beginning a 29-year career in bridge construction. He retired from Payne & Dolan after many years of dedicated service. Through every chapter of his life, Ken stayed busy, followed his interests and found ways to make the most of each day.

Ken was a man who did life well. He was not one to sit still, and when an idea found its way into his head, he was usually determined to see it through. He had a natural mechanical ability and could often be found working on cars, tinkering, fixing or simply figuring out how things worked.

His adventurous spirit took him in many directions. A love of NASCAR, four-wheeling and snowmobiling eventually led him to pursue and earn his pilot’s license. Ken loved adventure, but he also loved people. A true social butterfly, he enjoyed nothing more than spending time with family and friends, sharing stories, laughter and good times.

Ken enjoyed the simple pleasures of home as well. Summers often found him outside doing yardwork and gardening. When winter arrived, his love of travel frequently drew him south to Tucson, Ariz., where he enjoyed escaping the Wisconsin cold and making more memories along the way.

Ken was a former member of the Waubeka Fire Department and was always someone who enjoyed being involved, staying busy and living life on his own terms.

Ken lived with curiosity, adventure, determination and a genuine love for the people around him. He kept moving, kept tinkering, kept traveling and kept finding something to enjoy.

Ken is survived by many nieces and nephews, cousins and special friend Rita Fischer as well as other family members and close friends who will miss his friendship, humor, adventurous spirit and unmistakable personality.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Rachel, whom he married on Aug. 1, 1980, on the bluff in Port Washington; his parents Walter and Gladys Wilkens-Hiller; and his siblings Gerald Wilkens and Judith Wilkens.

A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, 2026, at Eernisse Funeral Home, 1600 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington. Visitation will be held at the funeral home on Friday from 11 a.m. until the service at 1 p.m.

Ken will be laid to rest beside his wife Rachel at St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Fredonia.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Ken’s name to the Waubeka Fire Department.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.