Kenneth Richard Driessel

Kenneth R. Driessel, 84, passed away unexpectedly on September 30, 2024 at his home in West Bend, Wisconsin.

Kenneth was born on April 29, 1940, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to the late Richard and Margaret (nee Otto) Driessel. He grew up in West Bend after his parents settled there following the end of World War II.  He attended Holy Angels grade school, followed by West Bend High School, where he graduated with honors in 1958. He then went on to attend the University of Chicago where he majored in mathematics, again graduating with honors in 1962.  He pursued graduate studies initially at University of California Berkely and then went on to complete his PhD in mathematics at Oregon State University in 1967.

He worked for Amoco Oil Company as an analyst for many years before turning to academia.  He was on the faculty at Wyoming University and Iowa State University in their mathematics departments.  He played an important role in the education of several generations of students and mentored many in their advanced studies.  He lived in Wyoming and Iowa for many years prior to moving back to West Bend in 2023.

He enjoyed challenging himself mentally and physically.  He played chess throughout his life and enjoyed collaborating with mathematicians across the world trying to solve challenging problems.  Even after retiring, he continued to be very active with online chess groups, economics forums, and mathematics seminars.  He was a competitive gymnast through high school and college.  After college, he was an extremely active cyclist and cross country skier.  Over the years, he travelled across the globe for cycling and skiing trips, participating in single person treks and large group tours.  He made many friends through the years as part of these activities.  As much as he enjoyed challenging himself, he also found great joy in challenging others.

Those left to cherish Kenneth’s memory include his nephew, Dr. Duncan (Dr. Jennifer) Stearns; niece, Deborah Stearns; two great-nephews, Aidan and Lex Stearns; other relatives and many friends.

In addition to his parents, Kenneth is preceded in death by his sister Nancy Jane (Driessel) Stearns.

A Celebration of Kenneth’s life may be planned for a time to be determined in the future.  This will be updated on the Myrhum-Patten Funeral & Cremation Service website.

Myrhum – Patten Funeral & Cremation Service has been entrusted with Kenneth’s arrangements. Additional information and guest book can be found at www.myrhum-patten.com.