VERONA - Kent Frederick Brye, age 69, of Verona, passed away on Sunday, July 5, 2026, at UW Hospital and Clinics. He was born on October 24, 1956, in Richland Center, the son of Frederick and Maxine (Hall) Brye.

Kent earned his Bachelor of Science degree in computer science from UW-Madison in 1988. On October 27, 1990, he married Sandra “Sandy” Ellis in Madison.

Sandy was the love of Kent’s life, and the birth of their daughter, Katrina, brought even more joy to their family. Kent was proud of Katrina’s artistic talent, and a bit baffled by it, saying often that none of that talent came from him. Above all, Kent was devoted to his family. He was happiest quietly taking care of the people he loved and finding ways, large and small, to make their lives a little easier.

Kent found joy in the outdoors and cherished spending time fly fishing, golfing, and biking. He especially loved traveling in his Airstream, creating lasting memories while camping with family and friends. At home, he was an enthusiastic cook who took pride in perfecting recipes, including homemade pasta and pizza. He was also an avid reader and greatly admired the works of the late fly-fishing writer John Gierach.

Kent worked as IT Director for the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE), retiring in 2023 after 23 years of service. He valued his role as a leader, but his greatest loyalty was always to the people on his team. He cared deeply about their work and the challenges they faced and was never afraid to advocate for them. A quote from Gierach resonates: “I can often wait out trout, but I tend to lose patience with humans.” Those who worked with Kent knew that beneath his wry humor and opinions was someone firmly in their corner. They knew they were in good hands.

Kent is survived by his wife Sandy; daughter, Katrina Brye; brother, Steve (Marcia) Brye; sisters, Susan Brye and Shelley Brye; nieces, Sarah Wendorf and Jade Krol; and nephew, Craig Brye. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Debbie Wendorf; and brother-in-law, Jim Wendorf.

A celebration of life is being organized and will be announced at a later date.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg
Funeral & Cremation Care
2950 Chapel Valley Road
(608) 442-5002

Kent Frederick Brye

October 24, 1956 - July 05, 2026

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