Kenneth W. “Kenny” Bricko of Mattoon, formerly of Wittenberg died on Monday, November 19 at Rose Mary Manor under the care of LeRoyer Hospice Services, Antigo.

Ken was born March 18, 1929 in the Town of Elderon, Marthon County, son of the late Lee and Josephine (Guyette) Bricko. Ken was a U.S. Army Veteran serving in the Airborne Paratroopers during World War II, serving in the occupation of Japan. After an honorable discharge, On June 18, 1948 Ken married Margaret Gorski who proceeded him in death after a long illness. After moving to West Allis Ken worked for many years as a machinist for Kearney and Trecker, Milwaukee as well as Briggs and Straton prior to making his way back to his his roots. Ken owned and operated Up Country Manufacturing, Wittenberg, home of the “Go Fast” band saw which he designed and where he loved spending time working and getting to know his costumers and friends. “He did it his way”.

Ken is survived by his children Tom (Carol) Bricko, Northfield, MN, Kathy (Mike) Meinert, Loveland, CO, Bernadette (Jay) Kottwitz, Lake Mills, Judy (Jay) Freiberg, Hatley and Bradley (Karen) Bricko, Antigo. One brother, Vern, two sisters Eleanor and Diane. Many nieces, nephews, grandchildren (special granddaughter Ashley who he called his “Angel” who took such great care of her grandpa during his stay at Rose Mary Manor), great-granchildren, and one great great grandchild. He is further survived by his companion Barbara Pagryzinski, Mattoon and Barbara’s children, Wanye (Susan) Pagryzinski, Wausau. and Kay (Matthew) Skonieczny, Kiowa CO.

Ken was preceeded in death by his parents, Lee and Josephine, his wife Margaret, a son Andrew, one brother Lee, sisters AnnaMae, Josephine, Florence, Audrey and June, and Barbara’s daughter and husband Deb and Terry Baumann.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Saturday, December 1st at Holy Family- St. William Catholic Church, Wittenberg. Visitation will be from 10 AM until the time of service at the church.

A second Memorial Service will be held at a later date so his many out of state/town family members & friends can make arrangements to attend. After this memorial service a graveside service at St. Francis Cemetery, Town of Norrie will be held with military rites followed by a celebration of his life at the home of his daughter and son in law Judy and Jay.