Madison-Paul Raymond Kessenich, 67, died peacefully at his home at Heritage Middleton, on October 19, 2015 with his longtime roommate, Duane Meyer, at his side. Paul will be missed by the many friends and family who enjoyed his infectious smile and charismatic personality.

Paul was born December 20, 1947 (a Down's individual), the son of Raymond (Red) and Flossie (Flugum) Kessenich in Madison WI. He was home schooled by his mother in reading and life skills, then lived at St. Coletta's for a few years. When he returned to his parent's home in Monona, he worked at Madison Area Rehabilitation Council (MARC).

His parents helped create Orchard Hill residential facility where Paul moved and formed lifelong friendships. When community placement was mandated, Paul moved into the community with friends. Orchard Hill’s care providers became RFDF, now Community Living Connections (CLC) who make living in community possible. With assistance from Responsive Employment Services (RES), Paul worked many jobs including restaurants, Dane County HHS and WPS. He will be remembered for his "station identification" announcements on WORT radio and bowling at Schwoegler's where he won numerous trophies and was featured in WSJ articles.

Paul was well known for his love of Native American culture which began in childhood when he played "Cowboys and Indians" with neighbor, Judy Ryan, who wanted to be "the Cowboy" and he responded, "Then I'll be the Indian". Paul spent many hours at the Main Madison Library, where he developed friendships with the librarians while enjoying Native American books. He also amassed his own extensive collection of Native American books and art. His spirit guide, Crazy Horse, often spoke to him.

Paul is survived by Duane Meyer, sister-in-law Jane Piper Kessenich, guardian/nephew Mark (Linda Derrickson); nephews Ned (Melissa Brown), Kristopher (Kathy Fiss), and Jeremy (Karla Ott); nieces Karen (Jared Frazin), Stephanie (Tom Christensen), and Melissa Menas; grandniece, Monica Remis, and many other grand nieces, grandnephews, great grandnieces, great-grandnephews, and cousins; extended family, Mary Weddig and Bill Remis (Sandi Everson); longtime friends, Calvin Langdon, Keith (Joleen) Grass, and friends from CLC and MARC.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, brother Peter, nephew Timothy, grandnephew Benjamin, niece Nanette, and close friend Bim Dodge.

The family is grateful for the wonderful end of life care given by Community Care Team: Mark (guardian), Branden and Shane (CLC), Marcia (Waisman WIN Nurse), Susan (MARC), Mary (UCP) and CLC's Scott, Sheila, Omar, Tiago, Abdi, Chuck, Dean, Cindie, Joann and numerous others. Agrace Hospice Care provided skillful nursing and guidance for his final days. The family also appreciates Dane Co. Health and Human Services for their substantial involvement and support. Many agencies contributed towards Paul's long and prosperous life.

A celebration of Paul's life will be held Sunday, November 8, 2015 at the East Side Club, 3735 Monona Drive from 1-4. His Potowatami friend, Art Shegonee, will perform traditional dance and prayers at 2 p.m.

To view and sign this guestbook, please visit: www.ryanfuneralservice.com.

Joyce-Ryan Funeral Home
& Cremation Services
5701 Odana Road
608-274-1000

Paul Kessenich

December 20, 1947 - October 19, 2015

Send Local Flowers & Gifts for Paul

Categories