September 20, 2023 Kenneth G Spencer 97 a man of faith earned his great reward as he passed in peace surrounded by his family.   His strong faith guided and sustained him to be the most positive caring man always a kind word and smile.  Ken was born November 17, 1925 to Earl and Dorothy Spencer.  He was survived by his wife Ruth, and children David Spencer (Deb Bauer), Lara (Jim) Hines, Linda Bena (Timothy Bena proceeded in death 2020, David Sobkowiak).  Grandchildren Amanda Spencer, Jessica Spencer, Jacob Hines (Brooke Evenson), Bailey Hines, Audra Bena (proceeded in death 2010), and Brock Bena. Great Grandchildren Riley Bohan, Genalyse Schaefer, Cylas Schaefer, Piper Zenz, Macey Hines, and Evelyn Hines.  Ken has been proceeded in death by many loved family members and friends.

As a child Ken lived in Red Wing MN.  He was very proud to answer the call to serve his country in WWII.  He was an airplane mechanic with the US Army Air Corp   After his service he started his many years in sales.  He spent his first years as a traveling salesman for Red Wing Shoes, Armour Leather.  He would travel to New York fashion district to sell leather to shoe manufactures.  Once Ken and Ruth started a family, he wanted to be home with them.  They moved back to the Midwest to be closer to family.  He bought a Gambles Hardware and was a sales rep for Skelgas.  In 1969 he made another change still in sales but worked for Alfred Bringe Insurance Agency where he took ownership.  He and Ruth owned the successful Spencer Insurance Agency for 20 years.  Ken also took the role of General Manager of Western Wisconsin Mutual Insurance Co.  He was very proud of the growth the mutual sustained under his management.

Not only was Ken a successful businessman, he took great pride in serving his community.  He spent countless hours with the Holmen School Board, Home Savings and Loan acquired by Associated Bank, Holmen Lions Club, Holmen American Legion, Holmen Area Civic and Commerce, and Holmen Lutheran Church.  He also served on many State associations and other board of directors.  With all his service he was always humbled when receiving numerous awards.

Ken was a man who put passion into everything he did and had a tremendous drive and determination.  He knew everyone ~ and always remembered their names.  Even though Ken and Ruth relocated several times for work, Ken was never a stranger in a new city.  He quickly made friends through his positive personality and captivating stories.

 Most important from his business success, Ken loved his family.  His wife Ruth was the light of his life and his true soul mate.  Not only together in marriage but worked side by side in all their businesses.  They were married for 68 years, the pair were rarely apart especially in retirement.  They enjoyed their many travels and the time in Ft Clark Springs Texas.

While Ken was met with health battles throughout his lifetime, he always persevered without complaint, determined to stay strong for his family and loved ones.  His warm smile and fascinating stories will certainly be missed, but never forgotten.

We are pleased to thank all the caregivers both at Mayo Hospital and the Tomah VA The Journey Home Dept.  Ken received military honors, we as a family were so proud.  We were touched by the compassion beyond measure: not only for Ken but his entire family.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. with a memorial service at 11:30 followed by Military Honors at Holmen Lutheran Church, 228 Morris Street, Holmen.  Pastor Matt Toso will officiate.