Kenneth J. Janssen

Kenneth “Ken” Janssen, age 95, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, in the home he built. He was born in the Town of Rockland on July 15, 1928, to the late William and Gertrude (Coenen) Janssen.

Ken graduated from De Pere High School. He served in the United States Navy from 1946-1949. On June 17, 1950, he married Donna Marie Lavey at St. Mary’s Church De Pere, Wisconsin.

Ken founded Ken Janssen Builders, Inc in 1955. He often talked about the first home he had built, which sold for $9,800.00. He built many homes and apartment buildings over the years. Ken took great pride in being an honest and fair builder, which in turn created many lasting friendships along the way. His dedication and work ethic was his number one priority. In 1985 while sitting around the dinner table enjoying one of Mom’s home cooked meals, it was decided that his son Jeff would carry on the second generation of the family business. Ken would always say “just do it.”

He was a proud member of the Brown County Homebuilder’s Association where he served as President and earned the Builder of the Year award.

He was also a long-time member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church. His hobbies included woodworking, puzzle making, and going to his shop.

In early retirement, Ken and Donna enjoyed their home in Melbourne Beach Florida for 27 years, hosting family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Donna. Also surviving him are his children Ken (Barb) Janssen, Sue (Dave) Woodke, and Jeff (Jill) Janssen; Grandchildren Lisa (Reuben) Phillips, Tiffany Janssen (Ben), Josh Franken, Chris “Chip” Woodke (girlfriend Brandi), Lauren (Travis) Van Straten, and Jessie (Karl) Nimmer; Great Grandchildren Jackson, Lily, Milah, Martin, and Jaeger, and one on the way; sister-in-law Dorothy Janssen and brother-in-law Carl Christensen. He was preceded in death by his daughter Linda Borta, son-in-law Pat Borta, siblings Johanna (Art) Wellens, Alice (Joe) Hutjens, Josephine Gossen, Louie (Esther) Janssen, Bob (Rita) Janssen, Dan Janssen, and sister-in-law Audrey Christensen.

Family and friends may gather on Tuesday, August 8th from 9:00 AM to 10:45 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 4805 Sportsman Drive, De Pere. Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM with Rev. Mike Ingold officiating, immediately followed by military honors at the church. His final resting place will be the Allouez Chapel Mausoleum.

Ken’s favorite color was blue, those attending his service are invited to wear something blue to honor him.