Kevin J Rydberg, 44, passed away unexpectedly on Thurs. Aug, 4, 2022 in Milwaukee, WI.

Kevin was born April 24, 1978 in Hudson, WI to Gary and Sharon Johnson Rydberg.

He is survived by his loving parents of Cumberland, brother Aaron of St Paul, MN, many aunts and uncles: Richard (Rosemary) Rydberg, Jim (Julee) Johnson, Tom Bents, Debra Johnson (Wendi Gudim) all of Cumberland, Susan (Steve) Reckner of North Prairie, WI, Jerry (Linda) Johnson of Janesville, WI, John Mark Johnson of Eau Claire, WI, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by grandparents Rev. Fay and Dorothy Johnson, Kenneth and Irene Rydberg, aunt Rebecca Bents, uncle John Jorstad.

He graduated from Hudson High School, earned a welding certificate from Madison VOC, and graduated from UW, Madison with a degree in applied mathematics.

Employment and locations changed over the years: construction in Milwaukee, and Madison, WI, welding in Minot ND, St Paul, MN, Philadelphia, PA, and Biloxi, MS. His last welding position was repairing an ore boat in Superior, WI where he was exposed to high levels of lead, ending his welding career.

Kevin was intelligent with a quest for creative, self researched challenges and projects. While still in High school he independently studied Latin, eventually connected online with a Latin professor at UW Madison, entered in a national Latin comprehension competition, placing second. He also designed and built a musical synthesizer and a CNC machine from blueprint concepts to actual construction which he sold as working models.

He was lured to the West/Northwest by God’s natural beauty where he spent the last several years of his life. His lifestyle was simple and needs were few. His latest project was designing an off the grid cabin for construction on land he had purchased in S Oregon.

His best friend, soulmate and gift from God was a black cat named Gus, residing at the Rice Lake Humane Society. Gus adopted Kevin and they were a team for many years.

Funeral service will be held at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Cumberland at 11 AM Thursday, August 11, 2022, with visitation one hour prior. Luncheon to follow service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be sent to Kinship program of Cumberland and Turtle Lake

Last Update: Aug 08, 2022 3:49 pm CDT