KENOSHA – Keith “Kuch“ Kuchinski age 54, native of Portage, WI, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 8th, 2024 surrounded by his loving family.
Keith was born on February 26th, 1970, in Wichita, Kansas, the son of Thersea (Brachelli) Kuchinski and Vernon Leipzig. In 1974, Thersea married Michael Kuchinski whom adopted all of us siblings and became our Dad and lifetime mentor. Keith graduated from Portage High School in 1988. Shortly after graduation, he joined the U.S. Army serving as a Spec 4 (E4) stationed in Fort Bragg, NC Honoring 325th Air with the 82nd Airborne Ranger Division. He was a very proud serviceman and patriot earning his decorations and campaign ribbons: Army Lapel Button, Natural Defense Service Medal, Sharpshooter Badge M-16, Humanitarian Service Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Air Assault Badge, Parachutist Badge, and Army Service Badge. Keith served in Panama City in 1989, and considered above all one of his greatest challenges; yet very rewarding. After his discharge, he continued his education at UW Parkside Kenosha with studies in the sciences of physics. In 1997, Keith expanded and started his career as a senior laboratory specialist at Akzol Nobel in the greater Chicago area, where he still was currently employed prior to his passing.
Keith lived a full adventurous life, knowing his time on this physical earth was limited. His creativity spilled out on canvas with his thoughts and emotions as he painted for an emotional escape.
He enjoyed many hobbies: fishing, good reads such as Ken Burns History, most favorite Band of Brothers, Matthew Black, and Amy Hermon. Hunting up north, camping with family, an avid outdoorsman, and can’t forgot about his hobbies of cooking up unique things and his love for country music. You could find him north of his homestead visiting his family anywhere there was water.
Especially Swan Lake soaking in the serenity. Keith “Kuch” had a contagious smile, a great sense of humor, and always ready for a new adventure. “That’s right!” with a Busch light!
He is survived by and surrounded by his mother, Theresa Kuchinski of Wisconsin; sissie’s, Karla (Tom) Greiner of Portage, WI, Kelly (Tyler) Greenheck of Pardeeville, WI., Kim (John) Wroten of Rogers, MN.,
Anne (Chuck) Clark of Auroa, IL; two bro’s, George Kuchinski of Portage WI., and Byron Leipzig of Trevor, WI. Also surrounded and survived by his adoring nieces and nephews. Uncle Kuch had the upmost love and compassion for: Anthony Sterlavage, Jacob Hohlstein, Rebecca Hohlstein, Stephanie Stires, Joseph Sterlavage, Aaron Kuchinski, Samantha Beeman, Mike Greiner, Roderick Babilius, Heather Wroten, Justin Clark, Bryan Clark, and Gavin Beeman. As well as all his great nieces and nephews, and his many close special friends.
He is also survived by his wife, Michelle (Molinaro) Kuchinski whom he wed on August 13, 2015, and mentored the two children brought into the marriage, Riley Steagall, 24, of Kenosha, WI, and Ashlee Steagall, 21, of Kenosha, WI. Keith was a strong father figure to his stepchildren, and he will be greatly missed by all of them. Michell and Keith adopted Frankie in 2011, who become a lifetime pet with much love and respect for Keith. He is proceeded by his late Dad-Pops, Michael L Kuchinski.
Loved by all! He’ll be enjoying his “soup” in his next venture.
His legend, legacy, and memory will be cherished by all.
Please join us for his Celebration of Life at the VFW Post #1707 in Portage, WI on Friday, September 27, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Services will be at 1:15 p.m., eulogy presented and open mic. Full military honors provided by the Portage Area Veterans Honor Guard.
An additional Celebration of Life will be held at the VFW Post #1865 in Kenosha WI, on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. for the family and special friends of Keith and Michelle Kuchinski.
All proceeds will be donated to the VFW in honor of Keiths name. Bring your stories, laughter, and memories, tears as we send off and celebrate the great patriot of a man that gave his all!
Cheers in Heaven – “That’s right! No problem”
