CLEAR LAKE — Kenneth Ray Mortensen, 86, passed away October 4, 2026, surrounded by family at Marquardt Healthcare Center in Watertown, Wisconsin. A longtime North Iowa building contractor, Ken leaves behind a legacy of skilled craftsmanship and a family that remained at the center of his life.
Visitation will be held Monday, October 12, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel, 310 First Avenue North in Clear Lake. A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. with Pastor John Heille officiating. Burial will follow at Clear Lake Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family.
Ken was born August 15, 1940, in Harlan, Iowa, to Sam and Sarah (Vendelboe) Mortensen. He graduated from Harlan High School and continued his education in a two-year drafting program, laying the groundwork for a long career in construction. He also honorably served in the National Guard.
On September 20, 1964, Ken married Donna Doolittle at the United Methodist Church in Clear Lake. They welcomed two children, Shelly and Dave, and spent many years supporting them at school events and activities in the Ventura school system. Donna passed away in 1998.
Later that year, Ken met Kathy Dunlay. The couple married January 9, 1999, opening a new chapter of family life and shared memories. They celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary in January 2026.
Ken earned a reputation as a hardworking builder who cared deeply about the quality of his work. He spent approximately 20 years with Woodford Wheeler before establishing Ken Mortensen Building Contractors, which he operated for 36 years. His experience and craftsmanship could be seen in projects throughout the area.
In 2009, Ken and Kathy moved to Wisconsin to be closer to their family and help with their grandchildren. Grandchildren’s ball games, basketball games and school concerts became regular and welcome parts of their lives. Ken retired in 2015 after decades in the building trade.
During his final three years, Ken experienced declining health associated with dementia. His family remained an important source of connection and comfort.
Ken is survived by his wife, Kathy Mortensen; children Shelly Cobb and Dave Mortensen; stepchildren Kristi (Pete) Montgomery, Aaron (Kerri) Klemm and Nathan (Heather) Klemm; grandchildren Alyssa, Hunter, James, Anthony, Tucker, Eva, Sarah, Kira, Grace, Abby, Grant, Griffin and Beckett; great-grandson Spencer; and extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Sarah Mortensen; infant daughter, Nancy; and first wife, Donna Mortensen.
Through the buildings he helped construct, the long hours devoted to his trade and the countless family milestones he attended, Ken leaves a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Family and friends may share condolences and find additional service information through Ward Van Slyke Colonial Chapel.
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