Leonard “Len” Wiskerchen 06/12/2026

Leonard “Len” Wiskerchen, age 90, passed away peacefully at his home on June 12th, surrounded by the love and care of his family.
Len was born on February 10, 1936, in Plum City, Wisconsin, and was raised in nearby Pepin, where his family owned and operated the Pepin Hotel. From an early age, he learned the value of hard work, helping at the hotel before and after school each day.
After graduating from high school, Len spent a summer working in Yellowstone National Park before joining the United States Air Force. He served as a radio operator and was stationed in several locations around the world, including Germany and Saudi Arabia. His training and experience in radio communications sparked a lifelong interest in electronics, and he enjoyed repairing and restoring vintage radios as a hobby.
Following his military service, Len returned to Wisconsin, where he met his future wife, Mary Lynn (Van Dyke) in Durand. They were married in 1961 and shared 65 years of marriage. Together, they settled in River Falls, Wisconsin, where they raised their four children and built a life centered on family, and devotion to one another.
Len enjoyed a long and dedicated career as a technical writer with 3M, where he worked for 29 years. He had a deep passion for language and was known as a true wordsmith. He took pride in precise spelling, thoughtful communication, and clear expression, and was a devoted daily crossword puzzle enthusiast. His ability to speak and write with clarity and care was admired by many. After retirement, Len continued sharing his knowledge and helping others through his work at Lund’s Hardware, where he enjoyed assisting customers and solving problems.
Len was a supportive member of St. Bridget Parish in River Falls. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing, deer hunting, and gardening. He was also a skilled craftsman in woodworking and furniture refinishing, and many homes are decorated with pieces he created or restored. Len had a special rapport with the cats and dogs our family adopted over the years – we called him the “dog whisperer” for good reason.
One of his proudest accomplishments was the restoration of his 1958 Thompson wooden boat. Once completed, it became the centerpiece of many cherished family outings and lasting memories on the water.
Len will be remembered for his quiet strength, steady presence, craftsmanship, and devotion to his family. He led by example, and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Len is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Lynn; his children, John (Carol) Wiskerchen, Sarah Wiskerchen, Betsy Wiskerchen, and Katie (Jason) Johnson; his sisters, Margaret Ann Serene and Sheila Quandt; his granddaughter, Kari Draves; and his great-grandsons, Gavin and Brayden Draves, who lovingly called him “Great Grandpa”; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leonard J. Wiskerchen and Margaret; his stepmother, Evelyn; his brother, Michael; and his sister, Evelyn Kingston.
Services for Len will take place at a later date, please check back for updated information. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.