Mackenzie T. Kylmanen, 46, passed away on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Watertown Regional Center. 

Mackenzie was born on March 4, 1980, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, the daughter of Roger and Deborah (Springer) Kylmanen.  She attended Fort Atkinson High School and graduated in 1999.  Though Mackenzie faced lifelong challenges, her bright and welcoming personality always shone through.  Determined to keep up with her peers, she participated in roller skating, tennis, and bowling during her high school years, embracing life with enthusiasm and courage.

Following graduation, Mackenzie went on to find meaningful employment at Opportunities Inc., in Fort Atkinson.  There, she formed many cherished friendships and was honored with the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C., as an advocate for individuals with disabilities, speaking on the importance of community employment and inclusion.

With a strong desire for independence, Mackenzie later moved to Watertown, where she lived in her own apartment and worked as an employee of Walmart.  Her pride in her independence, along with her spirited personality and determination, was evident to all who knew her.  She later made her home in a group residence in Waterloo, where she found happiness and support in a caring environment.

Mackenzie shared an especially close bond with her father, who she fondly referred to as “her rock”.  She deeply valued his steady support and love throughout her life.  Nothing made Mackenzie happier than visiting her dad at the County Fair.  She loved hanging out with the entertainers, snapping photos, and purchasing their latest CDs.

She is survived by: her mother Debbie Kylmanen of Fort Atkinson; stepmother Daisy Kylmanen of Jefferson; brother Kyle (Angie Smith) Kylmanen of Fort Atkinson; stepsiblings Krista (Chris) Stoiber of Hope Sound, FL and Corey (Brittney) Beck of Oregon; and her nephews Carsyn and Clayton Stoiber. Mackenzie is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

She is preceded in death by her father Roger Kylmanen, uncle John Kylmanen, stepbrother Jason Beck and other family members.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the caring staff at Lighted Pathways in Fort Atkinson, Johnson Arms and River View Assisted Living in Watertown, Victory Visions in Waterloo, and the My Choice Wisconsin team for the kindness, support, and dedication they showed her throughout her journey.

Mackenzie lived with her heart on her sleeve and had deep affection for those she loved, always asking for one last hug before saying goodbye.  She leaves a legacy of love, affection, and perseverance that will be treasured by all who knew her.

A celebration of Mackenzie’s life will be held from 11:00AM – 2:00PM, on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at the Jefferson County Masonic Center in Jefferson.  A time of remembrance will be at 12:00PM with Rev. David Zimmerman presiding.  She will be buried at Rock River Cemetery in Jefferson.