Kenneth "Ken" R Alvar

MIDDLETON - Kenneth R. Alvar, known as Ken to his friends and family, passed away on Dec. 26, 2023, in Middleton, Wis. He was born on May 29, 1943, in Superior, Wis.

Ken was a graduate of William Kelley High School in Sliver Bay, Minn. His academic pursuits led him to Carleton College, where he furthered his education before becoming a Physics graduate at Brown University in Providence, R.I. It was in North Hampton, Mass., where Ken met his future wife. Catherine, a student at Smith College.

The couple married and settled in Providence, where Ken continued his studies as a Physics graduate student at Brown University, and Catherine pursued a B.S in Chemistry at the University of Rhode Island. Their academic endeavors took them across the country, from New Jersey to Seattle and back to Providence, where Ken held various postdoctoral positions. Ken's career in health physics, safeguards, and eventually as the Safeguards Group Leader, brought them to San Diego, Minneapolis and finally to Los Alamos, N.M.

Upon retirement, Ken and Catherine chose the charming city of Middleton, Wis., to call home. Throughout their lives, Ken and Catherine shared a love for travel, exploring America's National and State Parks in their younger years. Ken enjoyed canoeing, fishing and being outdoors. He liked to take photographs of wildflowers and flowers that Catherine had grown in her garden.

Ken is survived by his sisters, Marcia (Rick) Way and Sheree (Gregory) King, who will miss him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Marian (Hathaway) Alvar; his brother, James Alvar; and his beloved wife, Catherine, who passed away shortly before him on Nov. 14, 2023. Ken's passing also follows that of his brother-in-law, Gregory king.

In keeping with Ken's wishes, no services will be held. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson West

Funeral & Cremation Care

7435 University Ave.

(608) 831-6761