Albert William Kemp Jr.

Albert “Al” William Kemp, Jr., age 86, passed away peacefully in his home in Viroqua, Wisconsin on April 19, 2026. A master craftsman, a legendary jokester, and a man who could build a life as sturdy as the homes he created, Al left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him.

Born in Chicago on August 16, 1939, to Pearl and Albert Kemp, Sr., Al grew up with a natural creativity and a gift for working with his hands. In the 1960's, he moved to California, where he and his first wife, Roberta (Robin), raised their three daughters. The call of the Midwest eventually brought them back in the early 1990s, settling in Wisconsin. It was there that Al’s craftsmanship was truly realized; he bought a piece of land and, with his own hands, built a beautiful two-story home that would become the backdrop for years of family memories.

Following Robin’s passing in 2006, Al found a second chapter of happiness. In 2007, at a bereavement group called the “Happy Huggers,” he met Rose Reutten. They fell in love and married in 2011, merging two families into one. Together with their beloved circle of friends known as “The Flamingos,” Al and Rosie shared years of laughter and adventure, eventually moving to Viroqua in 2024. Even in his later years, Al never put down his tools, recently completing a new deck and working on his basement.

Al was happiest when his six grandchildren were running around his property. They will forever cherish memories of feeding the horses, building massive bonfires, riding on the tractor, and fishing by his side. Whether he was telling a joke to make someone smile or exclaiming his favorite phrase, “I’ll be darned,” Al’s warmth was constant. He was a man of steady, simple style, usually found in his signature blue jeans, a T-shirt, and a flannel shirt.

Al is survived by his devoted wife, Rosie; his daughters, Jennifer, Lisa, and Heather; his grandchildren, Erin, Thomas, Sarah, Matthew, Jamil, and Faith; and his great-grandchildren, Jameson and Avery. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Robin; his mother, Pearl; his sister, Marge; his brother, Henry; and his faithful canine companions, Bummer, Lego, and Buddy.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Viroqua. Fr. Joe Richards will officiate. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass. A luncheon will be held following the Mass in the parish hall with burial to follow at St. Philip Catholic Cemetery in Rolling Ground.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Al's honor to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to his heart.

Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home & Crematory is serving Al's family.

123 W. Decker St.

Viroqua, WI 54665

608-637-2100