Kenneth I. Mach, 66, passed away on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at Fort Memorial Hospital in Fort Atkinson, WI. Ken was born on October 22, 1958, in Fort Atkinson, WI, to Emmaline (Fronek) and Frank Mach. He married Deanne (Dee) Zoesch on August 15, 1981.
Ken was funny. He loved to make people laugh. With his “Allllrighty then!” Ace Ventura impression, and so many others, he always had us laughing. His kids got their sense of humor from him.
Ken was passionate and hard-working. His first passion was fishing. He caught more walleye and blue gill than we could count, which led to wonderful weekly family fish fries. He was THE BEST cook. He loved making huge meals for the family for any occasion. He was happiest when we were all around the table, enjoying food and sharing laughs.
Ken was good at everything he did. Years ago, I wanted to try painting and bought all the materials and an instruction book on painting birds. While I was at work one day, Ken decided to give it a shot. Of course, they were beautiful. We still have all of his paintings on our walls.
When we remodeled our first home, Ken dove into landscaping with passion. He worked tirelessly until the yard was filled with flower beds that attracted hummingbirds and butterflies. He hand-dug a pond, installed a waterfall, and even had koi delivered from Japan. His flower gardens were breathtaking, so much so that strangers would knock on our door to compliment him. Inspired by this, Ken decided to start his own landscaping business.
When he had an illness a few years ago and wasn’t able to fish or be as active as he wanted, he set up an aquarium to keep him occupied. One tank led to two, which led to seven.
Ken was so proud of his son and daughter. He wasn’t just proud of what they had accomplished professionally; he was proud of the wonderful people they had become. He was happiest when “the kids” were home but enjoyed texting with Bryan during Cubs/Bucks/Packers games. He lit up when Jami called him after every Green Bay Packers touchdown and answered every call with, “Did you like that one??” He loved his daughter-in-law Caitlyn as his own and would say, “She’s a sweetie,” every time she left the house. Ken had a hard time thinking anyone was good enough for his daughter but realized Jami had found an amazing man in her husband Dave and couldn’t help but love him.
But most of all, Ken was kind and loved his family and friends unconditionally. Ken lived for the time with his brothers, sisters, and family. They weren’t just his family, they were his friends. Whether it was fishing, playing cards, or a large family gathering, Ken was always the last one to leave because he didn’t want it to end. He had a special place in his heart for his nephew, Alex Fero, who was there for him (and me) during very tough times. We couldn’t have gotten through those times without Alex.
I’ll never forget how Ken loved and cared for me during all the years when I was working too many hours. Supper was ready for me whether I got home at 8 p.m. or 3 a.m., and he brought it to me on a warm plate. He cooked, cleaned, and did laundry—whatever needed to be done.
We would like to thank the Whitewater Police Department and Whitewater EMS. Special thanks to Dr. Frazier and his team for trying so hard to bring Ken back to us and for the kindness and hugs they offered so freely.
Ken is survived by his wife Dee of 42 years and his children: Bryan Mach and his wife Caitlyn Williamson of Madison, WI, and Jami Mach and her husband David Costello of Pueblo West, CO.
He is also survived by his siblings: Frank Mach of Fort Atkinson, WI; David (Teresa) Mach of Sycamore, IL; Mike (Deb) Mach of Sugar Camp, WI; Cheryl Eisner of Whitewater; Ruth (Ed) Kowalski of Whitewater; Lynn Mach of Madison, WI; and Carey (Mark) Fero of Whitewater.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Dennis Mach; his sister-in-law, Lois Mach; and his brother-in-law, Pat Eisner.
A memorial visitation will take place from 3 PM until 5 PM on Monday, February 24, 2025 at Nitardy Funeral Home in Whitewater.
You will never be forgotten, honey. Xoxo
