Kenneth R. Baeckman, age 80, a resident of Manitowoc, entered eternal life on Sunday, August 15, 2021 at Manitowoc Health and Rehabilitation Center.
Ken was born on December 11, 1940 in Newton to the late Charles and Eleanor (Oakley) Baeckman. He graduated from Lincoln High School with the class of 1959. Ken enlisted in the United States Army and served his country overseas in Vietnam until his honorable discharge. Upon his return, Ken began working at the Wisconsin Aluminum Foundry in Manitowoc where he was employed for 40 years until his retirement. He enjoyed playing golf and basketball, and also competed in softball leagues and tournaments. Ken was an avid bowler and competed in many leagues along with state and national competitions. He enjoyed playing bingo at Oneida, and watching sports – especially the Packers, Brewers, Badgers and Bucks. Ken was a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles #706.
Survivors include Ken’s son, Randy (Jessie) Baeckman, Manitowoc; granddog, Colten; brother, Jerry (Barb) Baeckman, Manitowoc; sister, Patricia (Jerry) Brown, Wichita, KS; the mother of his son, Julie Burbey, Manitowoc; special friend, Kris Siehr, Manitowoc; also nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Ken was preceded in death by his father and mother, Walter and Eleanor Riske; two brothers, Robert Riske and Roger Baeckman; and Ken’s significant other of many years, Louann Kolarik.
Memorial services will be held at 5 p.m. on Monday, August 23, 2021 at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home with Rev. Dr. Matthew Sauer officiating. Military rites will then be accorded by Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 731 immediately following the memorial service at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. A reception for family and friends will then be held at the Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center located on the south property of the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel. The family will greet relatives and friends at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home on Monday from 3 p.m. until the time of the memorial service at 5 p.m. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials in Ken’s name.
Ken’s family would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to the staffs of Manitowoc Health and Rehabilitation and Compassus Hospice for all the care and compassion they provided.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
