Dennis Wayne Olszewski

Dennis W. Olszewski, age 68, passed away on December 29, 2023, in Wausau, Wisconsin.

He was born on July 2, 1955, the son of the late Joseph and Patricia (Zell) Olszewski.  He married Antonina Barbero on July 15, 2006, she survives. 

Dennis grew up in the Southwestern Suburbs of Chicago where his favorite pastime was playing baseball, a hobby he enjoyed well into his 30s. After moving to Wisconsin at the beginning of high school, he discovered a deep love for the outdoors, spending much of his time exploring the woods and engaging in all manner of hunting, from small game to deer. It was also in high school that Dennis developed his love for driving fast cars, albeit occasionally at the expense of the car itself.

Dennis was a graduate of “The School of Life” holding numerous degrees in a range of subjects: Rocks vs. Stones; Heavy Machinery; Ginseng; Fishing; Hunting; Boating; and Other General Knowledge. He was a self-made man who spent most of his professional life in the stone industry, starting several successful businesses to include his first company, Boulder Stone, and his last company, Badger Sandstone. One of his favorite pastimes was driving throughout the Wisconsin countryside looking for the “perfect spot” to open a new pit or take down a rock wall.

Another lifelong hobby of Dennis’ was fishing, particularly for salmon on Lake Michigan. For years, Bailey’s Harbor and Ellison Bay, both in Door County, were like a second home to him. He taught all three of his children how to fish and they forged memories on many different boats on many different waterways throughout the years. He also formed some of his closest friendships through annual fishing trips.

Dennis had a huge laugh and people always knew when he was in a room. He was known as someone who made parties seem a little bit more exciting, and as someone who appreciated the chance to have a good time with both friends and strangers.

Dennis loved road tripping, frequently recounting a long-ago road trip with his eldest daughter, Denae. With his wife, Dennis discovered a love of traveling overseas, especially enjoying spending time in the Caribbean, which allowed him to indulge in one of his treasured pastimes, swimming. One of his fondest memories was the opportunity to take his children Sara and Sam, and daughter-in-law, Cat, to one of his favorite islands, St. Marteen.

Besides his wife Antonina, Dennis is survived by his children Denae Olszewski, Sara (Catherine) Olszewski, and Sam Olszewski; his grandchildren, Cody Nowitzke, Andera Moon, Brilee Nowitzke, Taryn Olszewski, and Parker Olszewski; his siblings Randy Olszewski, Alan (Michael) Olszewski, Tim (Karen) Olszewski, and Patti Jo (Mike) Oren; and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins. Special in his heart was his nephew, Joel Olszewski, whom he always considered his “second son”.

A Funeral Service will be held at 11:30 a.m., on Friday, January 5, 2024, at Our Savior Catholic Church, Mosinee.  The Rev. Marion Talaga will officiate.  Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee.  Online condolences can be directed to the family at www.bestefh.com.