Obit: Speich, Kenneth G (1927 – 2017)

Transcriber: stan@wiclarkcountyhistory.org 

Surnames: Speich, Beyer, Parker, Marth, Krause, Martin, Morris, Roberts, Mushel, Olstinski, Heckler, Simboli

Source: Tribune/Record/Gleaner (Abbotsford, WI) – 26 Jul 2017

Speich, Kenneth G (3 MAR 1927 – 20 JUL 2017)

Kenneth G. Speich, 90, Greenwood, died on Thursday, July 20, 2017, at Ministry Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield, with his family at his side. Everyone is invited to celebrate Ken’s life from 2-6 p.m., on Saturday Aug. 5, at the American Legion on Main Street in Greenwood.

Ken was born on March 3, 1927, to George and Barbara (nee Beyer) Speich. He married Sally Parker on April 12, 1950. Sally died on Dec. 16, 1990. Ken was remarried to Glenda Olstinski on Aug. 27, 1993. Ken served in World War II with the U.S. Navy as a signalman, and also was with the Admiral Byrd expedition to Antarctica. He owned and operated Speich Tractor in Greenwood for 34 years. His hobbies included being an avid fisherman, hunter, snowmobiler (for which he taught certification classes), motorcycling and flying.

Ken belonged to the American Legion for 71 years. He served as vice state commander as well as post commander for several years. Ken started the drill team squad.

He is survived by seven daughters: Sue (Dennis) Marth of Marshfield, Pat (Gary) Krause of Greenwood, Pam (Bob) Martin of Marshfield, Linda (Paul) Morris of Marshfield, Jeannie (Bill) Roberts of Neillsville, Laura Speich of Greenwood, and Sharon (Brent) Mushel of Marshfield; three step-children: Brian (Melissa) Olstinski of Greenwood, Lisa (Dave) Heckler of Greenwood, and Sara (Tony) Simboli of Greenwood; 21 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Sally; a son, Steve; and a sister, Carol.