Donald W. Brick

Donald W. Brick (April 29, 1959 - April 19, 2025)

Don passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 19, 2025, at the age of 65. He was born April 29, 1959, to Donald J. Brick and Patricia A. Brick (nee Zurowski) on the southside of Milwaukee. As a young man, he received his Eagle Scout and was a 1977 graduate of Milwaukee Tech High School. From there, he went on to become a third-generation steamfitter and was a member of UA Local 601 for over 47 years. Within those years, he furthered his education to earn a teaching degree. He enjoyed teaching classes at the union hall where he was able to instill his passion and mentor those entering the Union.

Even after long days of work and teaching, he still had so much compassion to give. He was a man who volunteered many hours to his community. Whether it was being on festival committees, helping out at school fundraisers or being an usher at his church. He also devoted much of his time helping family and friends. Using his hands, his tools and his know-how, if anything ever needed fixing, he was the man to call.

Not only was he able to use his hands to fix things, but he was also able to build things. Sometimes the things he made were created from a pile of odds and ends. His creativity really showed off his artistic ability. Some of his hobbies included woodworking, using his lathe to turn a block of material into something beautiful. He loved tinkering in his workshop, camping and found so much joy being outside. He had a grapevine growing in his backyard that he turned into wine. He even received awards and recognition for his bottles of wine. He had SO many things and accomplishments to be proud of.

Don also found pride in that he was devoted to his best friend, wife and other half with a loving marriage of 43 years. Don and Cathy were married on May 2, 1981. In 1987, their path led them to put down roots and build a home in Franklin, WI, which is where they raised their family and still live today. Together they had 2 children, Matt and Katie. His family was always Don's priority. Don never wanted to miss important events during the adolescence of his children. He continued that commitment when his grandchildren, Jayden, Nora and Roman, came along. Don was better known as "Papa", to his 3 grandchildren. He couldn't get enough of them. He dedicated SO much time to the family he adored and those who adored him back.

"Family", can also be an "Outside the Box" term. Don had SO many close friends who were considered family. He would put them inside his circle in a heartbeat. Don touched many peoples' lives. He made friends wherever he went. He was so much, to so many people!

Preceded in death by his mother and father. Don is survived by his wife, Catherine (nee Genske); his son, Matt, wife Anita Hart; His daughter, Kathryn, husband Michael Pardun; Grandchildren, Jayden, Nora and Roman. Also survived by brothers and sisters, aunts and an uncle and many cousins. His Aunt Joan, who thought of him like a son, will miss his visits.

Don left us way too soon but will never be forgotten.

A memorial gathering will be held at Max A. Sass & Sons-Mission Hills Chapel (8910 W. Drexel Ave., Franklin) on Monday, April 28th starting at 4PM until time of memorial service at 6PM.