Ken Kozminski passed away peacefully on November 23, 2020 at the age of 57 after a
courageous battle with cancer.
He will be deeply missed by his four children and the love of his life, Linda Van Straten, who he called his angel. Ken was a devoted father and his children Olivia "Pips", Claudia "Little Bear", Carly "Carcar", and Cole "Coco", were the most important part of his life. He was loved by his sisters and their spouses, Mary Ann (Dennis) Spychalla, Marge Mosey, Barb (Jim) Foley, and many nieces and nephews, relatives, friends, and neighbors. He is preceded in death by his parents Leonard and Aletta and his sister Cathy.
Ken had an adventurous spirit and enjoyed traveling and discovering new places. He spent
hours hiking, biking, kayaking, or playing sports. A fierce competitor, he competed in multiple
Spartan races. As a Master Gardener, he could identify and name almost any plant. His yard
was something out of Better Homes and Gardens. He was born in Menomonee Falls but spent
many years in Davenport where he was converted into a Chicago Bears fan. Eventually he
moved back to Brookfield to raise his family.
Throughout his life, Ken brought levity and tenacity to every situation. In his illness, he lived out his motto to "Embrace the suck and fight like hell," persevering with grace, kindness, and a
disarming sense of humor. He continually amazed his loved ones, friends, and caregivers with
his positive attitude and joyful spirit, uplifting all around him, even in his darkest moments
always reminding others to "Get busy living". Ken lived out his faith in God, setting an example
of true humility and love that inspires all who knew him.
Ken was loved by many incredible caregivers through his journey. His palliative team, Dr.
Najmus Liang, and Chaplain Darren Beachy, nicknamed "The Miracle Team" by Ken moved
mountains every step along the way. The nurses and doctors at Sheboygan Memorial Hospital
have become an extended family. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice for all their help and support during this time.
Funeral services will be held at the the Eernisse Funeral Home, 1167 Washington Ave, in Cedarburg, Thursday, Dec. 3rd at 6 PM. Due to COVID-19, seating will be very limited, and the funeral service will also be broadcast online. There will be a visitation prior to the service at the funeral home from 4-6 PM. Masks and proper social distancing are suggested.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sharon S. Richardson Community Hospice or the
American Diabetes Association.
To view Ken's funeral service, please use the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/coQwjyttm2GFXE80iKfihnLlRXNXow0K3z0sJ5j0mwvX_Gd3UZAqv0bQj1HSfxOe.aJQDP2pbP_LVewA9?startTime=1607039953000
Ken's Tribute Video