Nechkash Sr., Todd L.

Todd L. Nechkash Sr., age 62, of Ridgeway, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly at his home on February 11, 2026.

Todd was born on December 6, 1963, in Madison, Wisconsin, to LaVern “Toby” Nechkash and Gertrude “Trudy” (Dickey) Nechkash. He graduated from Verona High School with the Class of 1982 and went on to earn a diploma in Machine Tooling Technics from Madison Area Technical College (MATC).

Todd served his country in the US Navy and was stationed in San Diego. Following his military service, he built a diverse and hardworking career. He worked as a headline cook at Quivey’s Grove learning culinary skills, and later at WISCO Industries, Quantum Devices, and most recently at Milwaukee Valve where he took extreme pride in his machining skills.

When he wasn’t working, Todd could be found doing what he loved most—camping, fishing, bow hunting, bird watching, cooking, challenging himself to grow the hottest peppers in his garden, canning his famous salsa which won competitions with co-workers, putting his handyman skills to use, watching NASCAR, going to live music events and was looking forward to the upcoming AC/DC concert at Camp Randall, but most of all spending time with his pride and joy, his son, Todd Nechkash II. His secret ham recipe and delicious cheesecakes were a staple at every family get-together, and he could always be counted on to put together a salad bar that would make any Wisconsin supper club proud.

Todd didn’t take life too seriously. He lived in the moment, kept his family close, and made it a point to check in regularly. He took great pride in caring for those he loved and sharing his talents with everyone around him. He also kept everyone on their toes with his spirited text messages in the family group chat.

Todd will thoughtfully be remembered by his son, Todd Nechkash II; his father, LaVern “Toby” Nechkash; his siblings, Karla (Rod) Hellenbrand, Toby Nechkash (Zoe Kooistra), Brenda (Kevin) Bohan, and Beth (Mike) Beutler; and many beloved nieces and nephews, including Zachary Hellenbrand; Austin (Anna) Hellenbrand; Ciarah (Ryan) Weiss; Stephanie Yost; Colin Bohan; Casey Bohan; Emily (Shelby) Riley; Tyler Beutler; Ashley (Marty) Schumacher; and Travis (Rachel) Beutler.  He is also remembered by his great-nieces and great-nephews, Jordy and Mia Schumacher; Brantley and Cheyanne Weiss; Alina Yost; and Ella Riley; as well as his maternal aunts, Lynda (Stan) Cutler and Dody Dickey and many cousins.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Gertrude “Trudy” Nechkash, along with several aunts, uncles, his maternal and paternal grandparents, and his beloved cats—Taz, Tigger and Taffy. 

A private visitation for family and close friends was held on Monday, February 16, 2026 at the Gorgen-McGinley & Ayers Funeral Home in Dodgeville, Wisconsin.

A public celebration of Todd’s life will be held at a later date.

Todd will be remembered for his work ethic, his many talents, his love of the outdoors, his humor, and most of all, his deep love for his family.

Gorgen-McGinley & Ayers 

Funeral Home

www.gorgenfh.com