Kenneth R. Olrick, Jr., 86 of Rio, passed away Sunday, August 25, 2024, at At Home Again Assisted Living in Rio

Ken graduated Rio High School and attended UW of Madison for two years. While going to school he worked at the police station in Madison and drove ambulance. He was a caring, warmhearted, hardworking man.  He was a Dairy farmer for 24 years. After retiring from farming he worked at Grande Cheese for 9 years. Ken and his wife Joanne also owned Creations Ceramics and Gifts in Rio, WI for 37 years.  In the little spare time he allowed himself he enjoyed woodworking and fixing & restoring his tractors.

He loved trains, all trains and would count the cars as they would pass through town.  This love of trains eventually led to playing an intricate part in the construction of the Rio Community Club Depot Park.  A kind and generous man, he made donations through the years which provided 1000’s of meals for the community. 

Ken is survived by his sister Ruthann (Russ) Dunst. Seven children: Darlene Zautner, Rose Gumz, Russ (Annette) Leasure, Tammy  Leasure (Tony), Roxanne (Todd) Dugan, Kevin (Lynnette) Olrick, Jill (Terry) Anderson. Grandchildren: Danielle, Josh (Marlys), Justina (Ben), Andy, Morgan, Caytlyn (Ian), Jamey (Ryan), Hayden, Ron (Patty), Tim (Sara),  Rachel (Jerry), Justin (Abby), Jeremy, Cody (Ashley), Emily (Spencer), Julia (Justin), Mitchell and 26 great grandchildren. One niece & nephew Karen and Eric. Ken was preceded in death by his parents June & Kenneth Olrick, wife, Joanne Olrick, and grand-daughter Haley.

The family would like to express a special thanks to At Home Again – Rio, Generation Hospice nurse Jodie and the entire staff for the loving care you provided to our Dad during his stay. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Rio Community Club Depot Park.  Per Dad’s request, no memorial service will be held.