Kenneth "Ken" Roth

Kenneth “Ken” Roth grew up in New Glarus, Wisconsin. A decorated high school athlete, Ken carried his passion for sports and competition throughout his life. After earning his degree from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, he began his teaching and coaching career in Argyle before returning to his hometown of New Glarus.

Ken devoted his career to teaching Physical Education and coaching the Boys Varsity Basketball team at New Glarus High School. Under his leadership, the team earned multiple conference and regional tournament titles. In recognition of his dedication and success, Ken was inducted into the Wisconsin Coaches Hall of Fame in 2001.

Beyond the classroom and court, Ken was a pillar of his community. He dedicated countless hours to youth sports, organizing and coaching numerous local leagues, including coach pitch, T-ball, pitching machine ball, Little League, Pony League, softball, sand volleyball, several off-season basketball programs and ran the New Glarus Pool. His goal was always to inspire in young people the same love of athletics and teamwork that shaped his own life.

After retiring, Ken and his wife Kay moved to The Villages, Florida, where they embraced an active lifestyle filled with golf, pickleball, shuffleboard, and social gatherings with friends. Even after he could no longer play golf himself, Ken continued to organize teams and games for others, bringing people together through sport and camaraderie.

Following Kay’s passing in 2023, Ken remained in The Villages for two more years before returning home to New Glarus, where he took up residence at the New Glarus Home.

Ken was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He will be remembered for his generosity, leadership, and unwavering love of sports and community.

Ken is survived by his sons, Shane (Kerry Tapio) and Lance (Janet); three grandchildren, Marissa (Philip) Roth-Vasilyev, McKenzie (Dan) Chen, and Miles Roth; nephews Mark (Chandra) Anderson and Jeff (Ivy) Anderson; and several grandnieces and grandnephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Wilma Roth; his sister, Ruth Ann Roth; and his beloved wife, Kay.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, October 26th from 1 – 4 at the Edelweiss Country Club in New Glarus. W4674 Edelweiss Rd. New Glarus, WI 53574.