MADISON - Kenneth Lee Cochems, age 74, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2023, at Agrace HospiceCare, after a long illness.

Born on Dec. 28, 1948, to Henry “Ned” and Beatrice Cochems, he was raised in the Vilas neighborhood, attended St. James Catholic School, and graduated from West High School. Ken was a member of the United States Coast Guard during the Vietnam era. He retired from the University of Wisconsin Chemistry Department where he was a contributor to their department's annual pig roast, aptly named the "Snout Out." As an adult, he resided on Madison's northside for many years. Ken was a dedicated fisherman of lakes in the Madison and Tomah areas. He was known for occasionally taking his catch to a local VFW and cooking fish up for veterans.

Ken is survived by his brothers, David (Donna) Cochems and Ronald (Gale) Cochems; nieces, Carrie Cochems, Tina (Dennis) Cochems-Wendt and Dena (Jeff) Kyle; nephews, Daniel (Amy) Cochems and Clint Cochems; cousins, Raymond (Lynda) Klinger, Linda Olson (Bob), Jeanne Kaminski (Stephen), Michael (Theresa) Klinger, Donald (Margaret) Klinger, Debra Kuehl (Gene), Richard (Cindy) Klinger and Mark (Aissa) Klinger; and other friends and relatives.

In addition to his parents, preceding him in death were siblings, Carol Dupont, Janet Wenger (Craig), James, Paul and Charles; uncle, Harry Klinger; aunt, Betty Klinger; and cousin, Nancie Smith.

A memorial gathering will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Agrace HospiceCare. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420

Kenneth Cochems

December 29, 1948 - December 13, 2023

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