Wilcox, Kenneth E. Age 85, passed away October 3, 2020 at Covenant Living, Golden Valley, MN. Ken was born May 22, 1935 in Winnipeg, MB and grew up in Starbuck, MB. He attended United College in Winnipeg, Graduate School of Banking at UW-Madison. Ken married Norma Thorarinson on May 11, 1957. Ken's career in financial services led him from Winnipeg to North Dakota, to Minneapolis, Montevideo, Richfield, and finally to Owatonna. Ken spent the majority of his career with Northwestern National Bank (later Norwest and Wells Fargo), where he advanced from loan officer to becoming the youngest Bank President in the company in 1976 at age 40, and served as a Board Member of the MN Banker's Association. Ken remained President of the Bank until his retirement in 2000. While President, Ken served as steward of the Louis Sullivan-designed masterpiece 'National Farmer's Bank' in Owatonna, restoring the building to its original beauty and architectural integrity. Ken was also instrumental in bringing indoor hockey to Owatonna, and a Four Seasons Centre rink is now named the Austin-Wilcox Rink. Ken's service also extended to many community organizations. Ken was a dedicated, giving, and loving husband, father, and grandfather. He was a dear friend to many, and his warmth, smile, kindness, humor and generosity are fondly remembered. Ken is survived by his loving wife, Norma, and children Brenda (Mark) Abraham, Cindy Wilcox, Bill (Elizabeth) Wilcox, and grandchildren, Eric, Nicole, Christopher, Caeli, Alexandra, and Jon. It is difficult to be grieving during the current pandemic. A small family service was held at Forest Hills Cemetery on October 9, and a community Celebration of Life will be held at a later time. Memorials may be sent to The Owatonna Foundation, Trinity Lutheran Church Foundation, Young Life Foundation, Owatonna School Dist. Foundation.

Published on October 18, 2020