Philip Kerch

We are heartbroken to share that Philip Kerch, age 73, died unexpectedly in Madison, WI on October 8, 2023. Phill was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to many. Phill was born in Fond du Lac and moved to Madison, WI in 2012.

Phill is survived by wife Tamara Kerch, daughters Elizabeth Kerch (Adam), Sarah Kerch (Paul) and Ksyusha Sokolova and grandchildren Brinleigh Bertram (13), Ruby Briggs (8), Lucy Trzyna (7), Bruce Briggs (6), Roman Hale (5), and Josie Trzyna (4). Phill leaves four siblings and their spouses behind, including Theresa Gellings (Neal), Paul Kerch (Pam), Joe Kerch (Jan) and Lisa Farley (Jim). He is preceded in life by his parents, John Kerch and Lucille (Perre) Kerch. 

Phill was a curious and life-long learner; his diverse interests spanned a career in nursing, beekeeping, wine making, wolf tracking, fishing, sailing and most recently making and selling baklava. Phill was an incredible listener; his desire to learn extended to everyone he met. He was humble, intelligent and always there for those that needed him. 

Phill loved his family above all else and was the center of their universe. After Phill and Tamara moved to Madison in 2012 his daughters all followed shortly behind so they could start their families near him. His gravitational pull was strong; we all just wanted to be where he was. Phill cherished being a grandpa, and his grandkids absolutely adored him. We love you and miss you Grandpa… “wishy wishy woo.”

Visitation will be from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday October 14, 2023 at Cress Funeral Home, 3610 Speedway Rd., Madison.  Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday October 15, 2023 at Cress Funeral Home.  Phill will be laid to rest at Forest Hill Cemetery in Madison.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Aldo Leopold Nature Center.