Kenneth James Madetzke

Kenneth was born on December 27, 1948, in Pipestone, Minnesota, to Gustave Ewald Madetzke and Ellen Ann Lent. After graduating from Trent High School, he proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1970. For his service, Kenneth received several honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with one star, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with device, and the Rifle Marksman Badge.

Following his service, Kenneth built a career as a business owner in Rapid City, South Dakota, in the Black Hills. He was a proud member of the DAV and VFW, dedicating much of his time to supporting fellow veterans. His greatest passion was helping others, and he found joy in vintage cars and restoring pieces of the past.

On November 24, 2009, Kenneth married Cheryl Perrine, and together they shared a life filled with love and devotion.

Kenneth was 76 years old at the time of his passing.

He is survived by his loving wife, Cheryl; his son, David; his siblings Barb Nelson, Donald (Emily) Madetzke, Al Madetzke, Brian (Sandra) Madetzke, Greg (Nita) Madetzke, and Cindy (Jeff) Amundson; as well as 28 nieces and nephews who adored him. He is also remembered fondly by many friends and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gustave and Ellen; brothers Richard Madetzke (infant), Ronald Madetzke, and Paul Madetzke (twin brother to Brian); sister Kathy Madetzke; sister-in-law Pat Madetzke (wife of Al); brother-in-law Wendell Nelson (husband of Barb); and other cherished relatives.

Kenneth’s passing was attributed to complications from Agent Orange exposure during his service in Vietnam.

Kenneth will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, his dedication to helping others, and his deep love for family, friends, and country. His life was a testament to service, hard work, and generosity, and his legacy will continue to live on in the lives of those who knew and loved him.