Kenneth Burnell Ulrich

It is with deep sadness but also profound gratitude for a life well-lived, that we announce the passing of Capt. Kenneth B. Ulrich, who departed this world peacefully and surrounded by love on April 6, 2026, just shy of his 93rd birthday. Born on April 18, 1933, in the vibrant city of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Kenneth was a cherished son of Irene Mathews and Walter Ulrick. His formative years were spent growing up in Mound, Minnesota.

Ken developed a love of all things mechanical at an early age, scrounging around junk yards to put an engine on his bicycle. He continued this with motorcycles and cars in high school. He joined the U.S. Air Force in 1950 serving proudly in the Korean War until 1953. When he came home, his goal was to be a pilot, and nothing was going to stop him. He earned his pilot’s license and began his career as an airline pilot. He signed on with Southern Airways based out of New Orleans, Louisiana in 1961. In 1980, Southern merged with North Central Airlines to become Republic Airlines based out of Minneapolis. It was then that he decided to move his family from LaPlace, Louisiana to Mosinee, Wisconsin and began Lake DuBay Orchards in Knowlton, WI. Republic Airlines merged into Northwest Airlines which was bought by Delta Air Lines. He served 33 years and met a lot of people throughout his career…some famous ones too.

Two sons followed in his footsteps becoming pilots with Delta and United Airlines. Two grandchildren also work for Delta Air Lines in a non-pilot career.

Kenneth was a man of quiet strength and boundless love, whose life was marked by his dedication to family, his commitment to community, and his unwavering faith. He was predeceased by his beloved wives, Mary Lou Notermann Ulrich and Joy Ann Simon Ulrich, and by his cherished son, Timothy Michael Ulrich. He was also predeceased by his sister Hazel Irene Jensen and brother Richard Roy (Dick) Ulrick. In their heavenly embrace, Kenneth now finds eternal peace.

He is survived by a family that was his pride and joy. He leaves behind two brothers and a sister, Don Ulrick, Jim (Judy) Ulrick, Delores (Roger) Callstrom as well as his wife Betty Wilkerson Ulrich.

His legacy lives on through his children: Mark (Marie) Ulrich, Chris (Shari) Ulrich, Kenny (Colleen) Ulrich, Stephanie (Alan) Figon, Jennie (Tom) Elliott, Lorne Ulrich, and Colleen (Byron) Doucette. Kenneth's life was further enriched by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him immense joy and whom he adored deeply. Their laughter and energy were the melodies of his later years, and he cherished every moment spent in their company.

His legacy also lives on through his grandchildren and great grandchildren Amy Ater, Joshua Ulrich, Alison Gardner, Nate Ulrich, Scott Ulrich, Abigail Ulrich, Randi Wilson and Nick McLean, Alexandra Ulrich, Seth & Leah Figon, Josie Doucette. Great grandchildren include: Josiah Ater, Ezra Ater, Aviel Ater, Phoenix Ater, Nekoda Ater, Eisley Ulrich, Emery Ulrich, Arya Ulrich, Lincoln Ulrich, Molly & Margot Gardner, Edmee Ulrich, Delta Ulrich, Hugo Ulrich and Asher Wilson. He was predeceased by Grandson Josiah David Ulrich in 1985. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Kenneth's life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and community. He was a guiding light to many; a man whose gentle wisdom and quiet humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Kenneth possessed a natural ability to connect with others, offering a listening ear and a comforting presence. His life reflected his values – kindness, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.

Throughout his life, Kenneth was an active member of his community, contributing his time and talents to various causes close to his heart. He was a man of faith, who found strength and solace in his spiritual beliefs, which he shared with his family and friends.

Kenneth's journey on this earth has ended, but his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched. His legacy is one of love, strength, and compassion – a testament to a life well-lived and a soul well-loved.

Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Kenneth are invited to celebrate his life at a memorial service, details of which will be shared in the coming days. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Kenneth's memory to a charity of one's choice, to continue his legacy of giving and community support.

May Kenneth B. Ulrich rest in eternal peace, his life a beacon of light and love that will continue to shine in the memories of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, April 13, 2026, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Knowlton. The Rev. James Trempe and Rev. Steve Ulrick will officiate. Burial will be at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery. Visitation will take place on Sunday, April 12, 2026, starting at 3:00 p.m., until 5:00 p.m., at Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee. Visitation will be again on Monday, April 13, starting at 9:00 a.m., until 10:30 a.m., all at the church. Online condolences may be directed to the family at www.bestefh.com.