John Steve Krukowski

John Krukowski Sr., age 84, passed away on December 18, 2025.

John was born in Wausau, WI on March 1, 1941 to John and Magdaline Krukowski. As a young boy he grew up on a farm and developed the foundation for a strong work ethic which he demonstrated his entire life. John graduated from Wausau High in 1959 and joined the Army shortly after graduating. He served his country in the Vietnam war, and while stationed overseas in Germany, he met the love of his life, Gertrud. John and Gertrud were married on July 27, 1965 and soon started their journey together as loving parents. John was honorably discharged from the army after fulfilling 7 years of active service and then pursued a career in auto mechanics that eventually spanned more than 40 years. He was highly respected by his colleagues in the auto mechanic industry. He also joined the Wisconsin Army National Guard completing more than 23 years of total military service. An accomplishment he was very proud of. He loved getting together for family gatherings which often broke out into a competitive game of sheepshead or bag toss. He was also an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing and hunting. He will always be remembered as a man that could fix or build anything he set his mind to, but most importantly, he will be revered as a loving and compassionate husband, father, grandfather, mentor and friend. John will be missed greatly and remembered fondly by many. From scratching his back on the nearest doorway, to rubbing his belly with both hands after a good meal, we will cherish many of these memories, always.

John is survived by his wife, Gertrud Krukowski and four children: Mary (Ryan) Johnson, Patricia (Dan) Toivonen, John (Jody) Krukowski Jr. and Linda (Perry) Esker, eight grandchildren: Justin, Danny Jr., Samantha, Colton, Ava, Maria, Eli and Dax, and one great- grandchild: Ben, three siblings: Bob (Ann) Krukowski, Paul (Kathy) Krukowski and Charlotte Gantner, and many nieces, nephews and other relatives.

John was preceded in death by his parents John Krukowski and Magdaline Schroeder.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations be made to the Man of Honor Society, P.O. Box 2071, Wausau, WI 54402 or the Wausau American Legion Post 10, 1001 Golf Club Rd., Wausau, WI 54403 to honor John's commitment to helping others in need.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, 10th of January, 2026 from 10:00 to 12:00 PM at Helke Funeral Home.

Services will be held on Saturday, 10th of January, 2026 at 1:00 PM at Restlawn Memorial Park with Chaplain Don Hildebrandt officiating.