Gerald Piekarski, Wisconsin Dells, WI
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January 12, 1925 - November 26, 2015
Gerald Piekarski, age 90 of Wisconsin Dells, WI, passed away Thursday, Nov. 26, 2015, at St. Clare Meadows in Baraboo, WI. Gerald was born Jan. 12, 1925 in Janesville, WI, the son of John and Valeria (Liebe) Piekarski. Gerald served in the U.S. Marines from 1944-1946. While serving in the Marines, he fought at Iwo Jima, Volcano Island, took part in the occupation of China, and was witness to the raising of the flag at Mount Suribachi. After the war, Gerald met the love of his life, Helen (Schultz) Piekarski. They were married Sept. 3rd, 1957. They made their home in Wisconsin Dells, where Gerald worked for Wisconsin Power Company. Gerald and Helen also owned and operated Whispering Pines Resort on Lake Delton for more than 30 years where they made countless cherished memories and lifelong friends. Gerald was an avid hunter. He hosted many friends during the hunting season and enjoyed sharing his love of hunting with others. “It’s daylight in the swamp!” was his well-known wake-up call used to rouse house guests out of bed. Gerald took daily “deer rides” with his wife and grandkids, and on a lucky day swung through McDonalds for an ice cream sundae. Spending quality time with family and friends was most important to Gerald. He regularly played cards with his sisters for hours. He enjoyed hosting and cooking, and was known for his “Polish Potatoes”. Gerald also liked to “coffee clutch” with friends in his kitchen, which involved a pot of coffee and donuts or sweets (brought daily by his best friend, Casey) spurring great conversation and countless laughs. Gerald lived a long, full, blessed life and will be missed by many.
Gerald is survived by a son, James (Carol) Jax; daughters-in-law, Anna Mae Jax and Susan Piekarski; grandchildren, Heidi (Dan) Waldner, Shiloh (Reese) Clark, Michael Jax, Tim (Stacy) Jax, Lisa Piekarski, Amy (Aric) Pederson, Katie Piekarski; many great-grandchildren; a sister, Winifred Weir; and nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his wonderful, life-long friend, Casey Piwonski. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen; his parents; his sons, William Jax and Gerald A. Piekarski; brothers: Marion, John and Daniel; sisters: Genevieve Jensen, Constance West, Izetta Weir, Theresa Nelson and Vernette Reigert.
Memorial funeral services will be held Saturday, Dec. 5, 2015, at 12 Noon at Picha Funeral Home in Lake Delton, with Reverend Blake Overlien officiating. Military rights will be provided by the Harold B. Larkin American Legion Post 187 of Wisconsin Dells. Visitation will be held at Picha Funeral Home on Saturday from 11 a.m. until time of services at 12 Noon.The Conway-Picha Funeral Home and Crematory of Lyndon Station, Wisconsin assisted the family with arrangements. For On-Line condolences and information, go to www.pichafuneralhome.com. 608-253-7884
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