Kenneth Burisek
Kenneth Raymond Burisek, 71, of Medford, died Tuesday, Feb. 8, 2022, at Colonial Center Nursing Home in Colby.
A funeral service for Ken was held at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 11, 2022, at Hemer-Pickerign Funeral Home in Medford with Pastors Gary Froiland and Daryll Olson presiding. Interment followed at Medford Evergreen II Cemetery.
Visitation was from 9 a.m. until the service at 11 a.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Pastor Ken was born Oct. 21, 1950, in Berwyn, Ill., to Edward and Ruth (Macik) Burisek. After the death of his father, Ken and his mother moved to the Medford area in the early 1960’s where he graduated from Medford High School, class of 1968.
Ken’s love for animals led to a life on the farm where he raised cattle and eventually developed the Kritter Kountry Zoo and Game Farm. He enjoyed the ins and outs of caring for all sorts of animals from kangaroos to emus, birds, to even a bear named Yogi. He also worked with the DNR in the rehabilitation of all kinds of Wisconsin wildlife. Eventually, Ken started his Kritter Kountry Taxidermy business helping local fishermen and hunters with their prized catches.
Ken’s most meaningful call in life was as pastor of the Ole’ Country Church. More than he loved animals, he loved people and wanted to make sure
that all knew of the saving grace that only Jesus gives. His care is known throughout the community as he worked with Black River Industries (15 years) as a bus driver and rest area maintenance man, as well as running a Ruby’s popup pantry site for six years. He believed that a life in service to God is in service to His people. Other ministries Ken took part in were The Gideons and the Ole’ Country Church Puppet ministry. He was a regular contributing writer to the Wisconsin Christian News.
Ken married the love of his life and beautiful bride, Jennifer (Olsen) of Jefferson on Nov. 7, 1987. They had two children, Keith and Holly, who were raised on the farm surrounded by animals and members of the Ole’ Country Church.
Ken is survived by his wife, Jennifer of Medford; son, Keith (Angela) Burisek of Janesville; daughter, Holly (fiancée Michael Benson) Burisek of Janesville. He is further survived by his cousins: Jon Macik of Medford and Joni (Bill) Krohn of Mukwonago.
He was preceded in death by his father, Edward and his mother, Ruth.
Hemer-Pickerign Funeral & Cremation Services of Medford and Rib Lake is serving the family. Online condolences can be left at www. hemerfuneralservice.com.
Paid obituary 116681
