Dennis R. Wanish

Dennis R. Wanish, age 75 of Crooked Lake, passed away on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 with family by his side. Dennis was born on August 19, 1948 to the late Charles Jr. and Hazel (Johnson) Wanish. He graduated from Denmark High School in 1966. Dennis enlisted in the United States Air Force on January 30, 1968 and was honorably discharged on January 28, 1972 as a sergeant. On October 10, 1969, Dennis married Linda Schleis. Together, they lovingly raised two children, Rick and Paula. While living in Denmark and Maribel, Dennis worked at Pauly Cheese and Wisconsin Fabricating. In 1990, the couple moved to Crooked Lake. Dennis worked at Patz Corporation and later retired from Marinette Marine. Dennis and Linda enjoyed traveling the country on their motorcycles and made many memorable trips out west. For many years, Dennis and Linda made iron flower plant hangers and they sold them at craft sales. He loved building things and was very creative with his welding. Dennis built a 3-wheel trike motorcycle out of a VW Beetle frame. He was an integral member of the Crooked Lake Sportsman's Club and served as the president for several years. He was very active in planting fish and helped get their current building built.
Dennis is survived by his loving dog, Duchess; daughter, Paula (Christian) Otradovec; three grandchildren, Katelyn (Shiva) Bujunoori, Cassandra Otradovec, and Natalie Otradovec; sister, Penny Wanish; siblings-in-law, Kathy Wanish, Jim (Theresa Peters) Schleis, Shirley (Jim) Schauer, Chris (Richie) Leiterman, and Dan Graczyk. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda; son, Rick; brother, Mike Wanish; sister-in-law, Sylvia Graczyk.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 at Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring from 9 am until the memorial service at 11 am. Dennis loved to tell stories and "shoot the shit," so please come with your best Dennis stories. Dennis will be interred with military honors at Mountain Cemetery following the service. Gruetzmacher Funeral Home in Suring is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be expressed at www.gruetzmacherfuneralhome.com.
The family would like to thank Peggy Schmill and the staff of Unity Hospice for the care and compassion offered to Dennis and his family during their time of need.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made in Dennis' honor to VFW Post 6705 in Denmark (P.O. Box 482, Denmark, WI 54208).