Kenneth L. Pugh, 93 of Jefferson, died peacefully on Saturday, October 28, 2017 at Rainbow Hospice Inpatient Center of Johnson Creek surrounded by his family.

Ken was born on July 17, 1924 in Ixonia, WI, the son of Howell and Laura (Maasz) Pugh.  He serviced his country during WWII in the US Army from January, 1943 until the war ended in 1946.  His time was spent in England, Belgium, France and Germany.   15 days after returning home from the War, he married the love of his life, Florence Dickhut on February 16, 1946 in Helenville, WI.  The couple raised 2 children and Ken spent 35 years employed at Felton Electric as an Appliance Sales and Serviceman.  He was an avid outdoorsman, raising field and trial Springer Spaniels.  His many service accomplishments included teaching hunter’s safety for over 10 years and coaching little league. He was actively involved in the initiation of Gemuetlichkeit Days and served on the Jefferson County Zoning Committee among many other organizations.   Ken has always been a generous and kind caretaker to all.   He was most proud and honored to be a volunteer at Rainbow Hospice where he spent much of his time with other veterans.  He was honored this year as the torchbearer for Tomorrow’s Hope and keynote speaker for Jefferson’s Memorial Day celebration.   Ken “The Storyteller,” touched so many lives which was clearly shown when over 125 visitors arrived at Rainbow to say goodbye.  His love of family was undeniable.  His pride and love was especially shown to his grandchildren by attending every sporting event possible.  He taught everyone that no matter our age, friendship is the conduit that links us forever.   He was a member of St. Mark’s Ev. Lutheran Church of Jefferson. 

He is survived by: his Daughter Sally (Jerry) Tinberg of Jefferson; Grandsons Craig (Callie) Smillie, Mathew (Jenny Neumaier) Smillie, Chris (Tania) Tinberg, and Ryan Pugh; Great-Grandchildren Bryan, Landon, Kiptyn, Chase, Kennedi, Sophia, and Caleb; Sisters-in-Law Gladys Floerke of Fort Atkinson and Janice Dickhut of Jefferson; Daughter-in-Law Sandy Pugh of Jefferson; and Special Friend Ginny Nickel of Edgerton.  Ken is also survived by a number of other relatives and many dear friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Sisters Erna Lindemann and Arvilla Eppler, Son Dennis, and his Granddaughter Jamie Pugh.

Memorials in Ken’s honor to Rainbow Hospice or Tomorrow’s Hope would be greatly appreciated.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00AM on Thursday, November 2, 2017 at St. Mark’s Ev. Lutheran Church with Rev. David Zandt presiding.  Visitation will be on Wednesday from 4:00PM – 7:00PM at the church and on Thursday from 9:00AM until the time of service, also at the church.  Ken will be laid to rest with military honors at Union Cemetery following the service.

 Service Information