Kenneth Wayne Schmiege

Kenneth Wayne Schmiege, age 78, of River Falls, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on July 7, 2026.

Kenneth was born on September 18, 1947, in Antigo, Wisconsin, to Roland and Arleen (Petska) Schmiege. He grew up on his family's potato farm, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the outdoors and family.

Ken proudly served his country in the United States Army. During his military service, he and the love of his life, Connie, faithfully wrote letters to one another, strengthening a bond that would last a lifetime. Ken and Connie were united in marriage on October 2, 1969, beginning nearly 57 years of love, partnership, and adventure together.

Following his military service, Ken took over the family farm, though eventually sold the farm in 1984 due to health considerations. Following his farming career, he completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and graduated from Hamline Law School at the age of 46. After earning his law degree, he and Connie settled in Medford, Wisconsin, where he established Schmiege Law Office. Throughout his legal career, Ken was respected for his integrity, compassion, and dedication to serving others.

Together, Ken and Connie were blessed with two daughters, Anne and Sarah, and three granddaughters, who remained the center of his world. Family was always his greatest priority, and he found his greatest joy in spending time with those he loved.

Ken lived an active and adventurous life. He enjoyed bicycling and proudly participated in the 500-mile Bike Across Wisconsin ride a few months before his 70th birthday. He was an accomplished pianist who found joy in sharing music with others. His love of the outdoors led him to sailing with Connie and friends in his younger years, and kayaking with his daughters down the Namekagon River in retirement. A gifted craftsman, Ken built and flew radio-controlled airplanes, enjoyed woodworking, and lovingly handcrafted music boxes for each of his grandchildren, treasured gifts that reflected both his talent and his love.

Known for his quick wit, kind heart, and romantic spirit, Ken had a remarkable ability to connect with both people and animals. Whether with family, friends, or a beloved pet, Ken's warmth, humor, and compassion left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Ken is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Connie (Anderson) Schmiege; his daughters, Anne Schmiege and Sarah Schmiege (Jean Denious); his cherished grandchildren, Paris, Zahri, and Harriet; sister JoAnn Berry; brother-in-law Jim (Carol) Anderson; sister-in-law Lynette Mundt; and many lifelong friends, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father- and mother-in-law, Harold and Fern Anderson; sisters-in-law Joan Riske and Janice (Daniel) Murray; brother-in-law Rick Mundt; and his beloved childhood dog, Taffy.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the newly established dementia chorus in River Falls (The First Congregational United Church of Christ; c/o Side-By-Side Memory Choir; 110 N. 3rd St. River Falls, WI 54022; Attn: Side by Side Choir) or to the Team Schmiege fundraiser for the Western Wisconsin Alzheimer's Association walk: https://tinyurl.com/teamschmiege

A celebration of life is being planned in River Falls on the afternoon of the Alzheimer's Walk on September 19th, with additional details to be provided by the family closer to the date.Arrangements are entrusted to O'Connell Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services of River Falls. For more information or to share a memory, please visit www.oconnellfuneralhomes.com or call 715-425-5644.