Kenneth Beyer Obituary

Kenneth D. Beyer, Sr., age 86, of Gresham, Wisconsin - known to most as Ken or simply Grandpa, passed away peacefully with family by his side on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
Ken was born on his family's farm in Shawano, Wisconsin on January 12, 1939, to parents Herman and Luella (neé Griesbach) Beyer. Ken grew up working on the family farm, eventually selling it to purchase Woodshedders Bar and Bowling Alley in Gresham where he coached and sponsored multiple championship softball teams. From construction to roofing, Ken was a jack of all trades who held a variety of jobs throughout his life, including the Gresham Feed Mill. He eventually retired from Noritage Inc.
Ken recently celebrated 64 years of matrimony with his wife, Geraldine Braun who he joined in marriage on May 6, 1961. Ken was a devoted husband and found great comfort in their lifelong companionship. Together, they raised children, Kim (Randy) Zastrow, Kurt (Nikka) Beyer, Kelly (Tom) Schmitt and Ken "Bubs" (Dawn) Beyer, Jr.
More than anything, Ken cherished the time he was able to spend with his family. He is survived by eight grandchildren, Jessica (Ryan) McKenzie, Elizabeth (Jesse) Otto, Dallas Kralovetz, Kyle Beyer, Courtney Beyer, Brooke Beyer, Zach Beyer and Heather Schmitt.
Ken was also blessed to welcome eight great-grandchildren to the family, Mikayla, Carson, Jack, Madison, Brantley, Miles, Boston, and Levi. He is further survived by a sister, Mary Beyer; brother-in-law, Ken Van Lanen; and sister-in-law, Donna Beyer. He was preceded in death by his parents and seven siblings, Walter Beyer, Herbert Beyer, Robert Beyer, Orville and Roger Beyer in infancy, Carol Opperman, and Donna Van Lanen.
Ken was a committed public servant who cared deeply about his community. For 25 years, he served as Village President for Gresham, the place he called home for most of his life. Ken took his role as a leader and mentor to heart and was involved with the Boy Scouts of America, FFA, Junior Achievement, Zion Lutheran Church in Gresham and the Lions Club, where he was a member for 50 years.
Ken also enjoyed the simpler things in life. His happy place was outdoors in nature where he enjoyed gardening, landscaping, ice fishing and deer hunting. Going up north to his cabin (his favorite spot) was a source of pride for Ken and a tradition his children and grandchildren uphold to this day. And of course, we can't forget to mention that Ken loved his Green Bay Packers and was a proud season ticket holder.
A funeral service for Ken will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday May 24, 2025, at St. Paul Stony Hill Church in Shawano with Pastor Steve Conradt officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday May 23, 2025, at Swedberg Funeral Home in Gresham from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm then again on Saturday at the church from 10:00 am until the time of service. Burial will be in Zion Rest Cemetery in the Town of Herman. Memorials may be directed to the Gresham Scholarship Fund or the charity of your choice
The family would like to give a special thanks to Unity Hospice, especially Leah, for their kindness and support during Ken's final days and to Pastor Steve Conradt for his many visits.
Shawano Location