Timothy Ken Vertein

Timothy Ken Vertein passed away on September 17, 2017 at the age of 60, surrounded by his loving family at home in Baraboo, WI. Tim was born to Ken and LaVeta Vertein on April 15, 1957 in Reedsburg, WI. He was the second child of four, having one older sister and two younger. In 1971, Tim graduated from St. John's Elementary School in Baraboo, and would later see all three of his children do the same. Tim graduated from Baraboo High School in 1975 and later moved to New York City to pursue his dream of being a chef. He received his diploma from the Culinary Institute of America in 1981. He then traveled the country as an Executive Chef opening new hotel restaurants. While in Oklahoma City, a friend's younger sister moved to be closer to her brother, then started working with Tim. This is how Tim met his wife, Maria. They were married on October 30, 1987. Together, they had three beautiful children, Timothy Apolo, Erick Jonathon, and Diana Michelle. Tim convinced, though some may say tricked, Maria to gradually move north to Wisconsin, finally settling down in Baraboo. Tim loved his children, always making sure to volunteer to be a field trip chaperone and to attend all his kids' math meets, forensic tournaments, graduations, and sporting events. Tim also loved the work he did for the University of Wisconsin and the Memorial Union. He was particularly proud of his work with Butch's Bologna Bash, Chili Cook-off, and the Badger Bash. Tim was also heavily involved with the New Union and Union South buildings, and would gladly give anyone a tour to point out his influences. Tim found the perfect job to showcase his love of the Badgers. Tim was known for his humor in everything he did, whether when he was taking the family on cross-country road trips, going camping, or playing cards. Tim also enjoyed hunting, fishing, bowling, and golfing. Tim is survived by his loving wife Maria, his children, Timothy (Rachel), Erick (Barbara), Diana (Shelly), his step-daughter Mariana Costilla and granddaughter Dana, his parents Kenneth and LaVeta, and sisters Regina (Bob) Derlein, Kerri Vertein, and Annie Kolar. A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 8, 2017 at the Waunakee Village Center, 333 South Madison Street, from 2 to 5 p.m. The Redlin Funeral Home is assisting the family.