Kenneth "Ken" P. Wictor

Kenneth Paul Wictor, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and distinguished architect, passed away on April 6, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on July 6, 1935, in Le Mars, Iowa, to Angelina (Fiegen) and Frank Wictor, Ken’s life was one of dedication to family, service, and a lifelong passion for architecture.

Ken grew up in Remsen, IA, where he developed a strong work ethic early on, helping at his family’s hardware store. Despite being relatively small in stature, he was known for his ability to lift and deliver propane cylinders weighing over 200 pounds—a testament to his determination and strength of character. As a young boy, he also became a Boy Scout with hopes of achieving the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, but the lack of a swimming pool in Remsen at the time prevented him from earning his swimming badge and realizing that dream.

After high school, Ken attended the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, where he furthered his education and began working at the Homestake Mine during the summers. Ken was also a talented musician—he played the trumpet and even had his own band during this time. It was during these years that Ken met the love of his life, Florence Lauer, a gifted clarinet player. The two were married on July 1, 1957, a partnership that would last a lifetime.

Later that same year, Ken joined the U.S. Army, serving at Fort Bliss, Texas. Upon completing his military service, he and Florence moved to Ames, Iowa, where Ken attended Iowa State University and earned his bachelor’s degree in architecture. His education and career would take him down a path filled with professional accomplishments and personal fulfillment.

Ken’s first job after college was with Flad Architects in Madison, Wisconsin, where he had the rare and enriching opportunity to study under the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. In 1965, Ken and Florence moved to Sioux City, Iowa, where Ken worked for Foss Engelstad Foss as an architect. He later went on to establish his own architectural firm, Neumann Monson Wictor, in 1983, a firm that would leave a lasting impact on the region. Ken was passionate about design and working with a close-knit group of friends and colleagues. Throughout his career, his firm designed numerous schools, recreation centers, and churches across the Midwest. His last major project was the Perry Creek Elementary School in Sioux City, which stands as a testament to his skill and vision.

Ken was also a lifelong member of the Catholic Order of Foresters and dedicated 50 years of service as an usher at Blessed Sacrament Church. In his personal life, he was an avid reader, a devoted college sports fan, and someone who found immense joy in the outdoors, especially in the Black Hills. He also had a fondness for a sharing a good toddy with friends and family, enjoying the simple pleasures of life. But more than anything, Ken was deeply devoted to his family, and it was their love that always brought him the most joy.

Ken is survived by his wife, Florence; his son, Dave; his daughter, Lynne (Mike); grandchildren, Katie and Sara; his beloved cat, Felix; and Gigo, who was like a grandson to him. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ed Wictor.

Ken’s legacy is not only reflected in the buildings he helped design but in the countless lives he touched through his work, faith, and love for his family. His wit, wisdom, generosity and kind heart will be missed by all who knew him. A celebration of Ken’s life will be held on Thursday, April 10, 2025. Visitation will be from noon until 1:00 pm, followed by a Funeral Mass at 1:00 pm at Blessed Sacrament Church in Sioux City. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Mary’s Church in Remsen, Iowa, in Ken’s memory.

Rest in peace, Ken. Your influence will continue to be felt in the structures that will stand for generations to come, and in the hearts of all who knew you.