Obituary: Kenneth Joel Biel

“Make that bass sound like a fog horn and the trebles sound like rain”, one student reported him saying, in a three-room apartment from which he taught on Pulaski Street.

Kenneth Biel, a longtime resident of Milwaukee’s East Side, died on October 15th, in Madison. He was 74. The cause was complications of cancer.

Mr. Biel had a lifelong love of music and, most notably, a dedication to classical guitar composition, performance, and education. An admirer of the Spanish style, he eventually became a student of Andrés Segovia. His last years of life were spent in Reedsburg, WI, where his musical focus turned toward the Christian genre and hymns.

Affectionately called “Kenny” by his family, he is remembered as a man who caused many to smile through his colorful character and naturally drew others into his life with a kind, gentle demeanor and a hint of charm. He will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his son, Wyatt (Stacia) Biel of Winchester, MA; brother, Monte (Dionne) Mast of Reedsburg; nieces, Rachel Mast, of Chandler, AZ, and Jennifer (Ryan) Best, of Waukesha; grandchildren, Noah and Soraya; and several nieces, nephews and their many, beautiful children. He is predeceased by his former wife, Jacquelyn Biel, and brother, Gary Biel.

Due to the pandemic, a memorial service will be held at a later date and a notice published, in advance.

Donations in his remembrance may be made to the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music.

“Love conquers all”, he recently said on reflection. “Life is only here for a little while.” May his memory be for a blessing.