Kenneth 'Ken' Charles Tupa Sr.

Kenneth ‘Ken’ C. Tupa Sr., age 84, of Merrill, passed away on Monday, March 24, 2025, at Pine Crest Nursing Home in Merrill, while under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services. He was born on May 29, 1940, to the late Bernard and Charlotte (Andrews) Tupa in Hibbing, MN. Ken served his country in the Army National Guard until his honorable discharge. He met Ms. Sally Ann Hedges, and the two exchanged marriage vows on August 5, 1961 in Tomahawk, WI. Sadly, Sally passed away in 2023.

Ken worked for over 20 years at Semling Windows, until his retirement in 2006. He was also employed with Park City Motors as a mechanic and worked a few years at Wausau Homes. Ken was a skilled mechanic and enjoyed tinkering with cars and engines. He would also enjoy participating in the ice drags in Merrill during the 1970’s, and won numerous trophies. Ken loved going to the stock car races in Tomahawk and Rib Mountain. He even gave racing a try for himself for about a year with his car, #55. Ken looked forward to camping and fishing trips with family, going to car shows and taking long rides with Sally throughout the countryside. Ken put together many model cars through the years, and they have been passed down to his son. He was a family man that was always helpful and offered a helping hand. Ken was funny and had a fun sense of humor. He had a love for all animals, especially his cats and dogs. Ken had a cat, ‘Tux’, that gave him a lot of comfort during his last days. He will be sadly missed, but his love for life will not be forgotten.

Ken leaves behind his daughter: Lora (Dave Sr.) Reichelt, son: Ken Jr. (Tiffany) Tupa, all of Merrill, grandchildren: David Jr. (Nicole) Reichelt and Jason (Samantha) Reichelt, great grandchildren: Jackson and Louis Reichelt, along with numerous in-laws, nieces and nephews. He is further survived by his little feline buddy, “Tux”. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife: Sally Ann Tupa, siblings: Robbie, Dick, Tom, Jack, Margie and Florence, as well as several in-laws, nieces and nephews.

The funeral service for Ken will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral and Cremation Services, at 301 Eagle Drive in Merrill. Rev. Scott Gustafson will officiate. Visitation will be held on Monday, March 31, 2025 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service, also at the funeral home. Burial and military honors will immediately follow the service and take place at Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations in Ken’s name to the Lincoln County Humane Society.

The family wishes to express gratitude to the wonderful staff at Pine Crest Nursing Home and to Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.

Taylor-Stine-Waid Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.taylorstinewaid.com.