Kenneth Robel, Kaukauna, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2017. Ken was born in Kaukauna on March 8, 1931 to the late Paul and Katherine (Driessen) Robel. He attended Kaukauna High School and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army in the Korean War. After returning from the war, Ken married JoAnn VandenBroek on June 11, 1955. They enjoyed 61 years together.

Ken was employed at Thilmany Pulp and Paper for 44 years, retiring in 1994. He enjoyed the peacefulness of being at the cabin, watching the wildlife and listening to music by the Eagles. Ken never missed any of his grandson's sporting events and recently had the honor of experiencing the Old Glory Honor Flight accompanied by Ed Patschke, which he truly enjoyed!

Ken had a way of making people laugh; his sense of humor touched the lives of many.

Ken will be missed by his wife, JoAnn of Kaukauna; two sons, Jeff Robel of Kaukauna; and John (Lisa) Robel of Appleton; grandson Cody Robel of Neenah and his girlfriend, Leah; and brothers and sisters-in-law: Darlene (Bob) Lipske, Bob Metz, Barbara VandenBroek and DeAnn Abel. Ken will truly be missed by his many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors.

In addition to his parents, Ken was preceded in death by his brothers: Robert (Ceil) and Richard (Barbara) Robel; sisters: Martha (Charles) Schell, Ethel (John) De Goey and Virginia (Oscar) Patschke; father and mother-in-law: Joseph VandenBroek and Cecilia VandenBroek-Abel; step father-in-law: Lawrence Abel; and sister and brothers-in-law: Bonnie Metz, Duane VandenBroek and Scott Abel.

A celebration of life service will be held Sunday, March 26, 2017 at the STARLITE CLUB (W2091 County Road JJ Kaukauna) starting with a prayer service and Military Honors at 2:00 p.m. followed by visiting and celebration, concluding at 5:00 p.m.   In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established. To sign the guest book, please visit oconnellfh.com.

The family would like to express special gratitude to Kathy Patschke for all of her love and support.