Kim Allen Koval, 68, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 28, 2026, at Aspirus Hospice House, surrounded by the love of his family.
Kim was born on September 18, 1957, in Wausau, Wisconsin, to Wesley and Julie Koval. As the oldest of five children, he embraced the role of big brother and remained devoted to his family throughout his life.
If something was broken, Kim could probably fix it. And if he couldn't, he'd keep it just because “you never know you might need it someday”. A true "jack of all trades," he had a knack for solving problems, working with his hands, and taking on projects. There weren’t many things he didn’t think he could fix with little determination, the right tool or in most cases a random tool he would just make work. Whether helping family, friends, or neighbors, Kim was always the first to lend a hand and rarely expected anything in return.
Kim found his happiest moments outdoors. Whether camping with family, sitting quietly in a fishing boat, or heading into the woods for hunting season, nature was where he felt most at home. He loved the simple things in life, the fresh air, a good campfire, and stories shared long after the sun went down and the occasional red dog. Those adventures created memories his family will treasure forever.
Above all, Kims greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 34 years, Debbie (Deb, as he called her), his three younger siblings, Shari Sickinger and husband Pat, Carla Hutchison, and Gregg Koval and wife Mary; his eight children Adrian Bixby and her husband Jerald, Chris Rice and significant other Susan, Brenda Nemitz and husband Matthew, Kristy Lemmer and husband Troy, Greg Rice and wife Michelle, Ryan Tappan and husband Luke, Richard Rice and wife Julia, and Cody Koval; eighteen grandchildren, and four and a half great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by his love, guidance, and sense of humor.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Wesley and Julie Koval, and his youngest sister Patti.
Kim will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, generous heart, practical wisdom, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. He leaves behind not only countless memories but also a legacy of resilience, kindness, and the reminder that there's always another way to fix a problem. While his family will miss him deeply, they take comfort in knowing his stories will continue to be told around campfires, family gatherings, and every project that requires a little ingenuity.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Aspirus Hospice House for the exceptional care and kindness they provided during Kim’s final days.
There will be a celebration of life held on Saturday July 18th at Wildlife Bar and campground in Birnamwood. The celebration will start at 3pm, the address is 183327 Schwede Lane in Birnamwood WI. Mid Wisconsin Cremation Society assisted with cremation services. Online condolences may be given at MWCS.WS
Forever loved, forever missed, and forever remembered.
