Kevin Prochaska

Kevin Prochaska, 44, of Vesper, WI passed away unexpectedly on January 30, 2024. Services for Kevin and his mother, Debbie are scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Pastor Margo Peterson will officiate. Visitation for family and friends will begin at 9 a.m. until the time of service on Tuesday at the funeral home. Kevin was the son of Tony and Debbie Prochaska, Wisconsin Rapids, WI. He graduated from Lincoln High School, Wisconsin Rapids, WI. Kevin worked at Hamel Forest Products as a sawmill operator that included oversight of the mill, along with running machines and various maintenance. Kevin had a strong work ethic and was devoted to Hamel’s since he started at the age of 16. Kevin had a passion for hunting. He enjoyed deer hunting (bow and rifle) with his dad, uncles, and cousins and was always on the hunt to find the big buck. In the spring, he would be on the hunt for a Tom turkey and found time to go goose hunting with his close friends. He followed the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers. He especially looked forward to the spirited banter between him and his brother-in-law, Doug, who unfortunately was a Chicago Bears fan. For over 25 years, the Packer/Bear games each year would bring them together for loud, explosive, and entertaining get-togethers. Kevin loved playing Fantasy Football with his nephew and earned bragging rights this year as he earned first place. He was proud to make woodworking projects for his mother and sisters. He especially enjoyed spending time with his family and dogs. He embraced the title of Uncle Kevin “UK” with honor and pride. He proudly wore his “FUNCLE” (like a regular uncle, only cooler) shirt to many family gatherings. He enjoyed board games” with his nieces and nephews, and he is now jokingly referred to as the SKIP-BO King. Everyone appreciated Kevin’s sense of humor and his stories of daily adventures left them laughing and shaking their heads in amazement or completely puzzled. Kevin always found time for his good close friends to have a few beers, text about the Packers, and just have a few laughs. Kevin is survived by his father Tony; sisters, Kelly (Doug) Look, and Kristy Johnson; nieces and nephews: Abby, Gracie, Riley, and Ellie Look, & Brady, Ruby, Maggie, and Mollie Johnson; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his dog Tanner. He was preceded by his maternal grandparents Howard and Josephine Rudloff, paternal grandparents John and Marie Prochaska, many aunts and uncles, and his dog Lily. His mother Debbie passed away later that evening from a broken heart. The family would like to thank members of the Wood County Sheriff’s Department and the Wood County Coroner’s office for their compassionate and excellent care on a terrible day. Kevin was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend! He will be deeply missed.