John Lawrence Ligocki

John Lawrence Ligocki peacefully passed away on February 14, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born on August 18, 1935 to loving parents John and Clara (nee Dettlaff) Ligocki.

John was known as "Curly," a nickname given to him signifying his black, curly hair. After graduating from Don Bosco High School, he began his career as a bookkeeper at Hoffy's Wholesale Meats in Milwaukee. He approached his work the same way he approached his life, with steadiness, integrity, and pride. He believed in doing things the right way, traditional and dependable, with pride in a job well done.

In 1956, his sister Mary told him about a lovely girl named Gail who worked with her and encouraged him to invite her to an upcoming birthday party. On October 21st, John arrived at Gail's home in his light blue '55 Ford, climbed the stairs to her door, and introduced himself properly before escorting her to the party. As they talked and laughed together that evening, something unmistakable sparked between them. When a friend later suggested heading to the Eagles Ballroom, John turned to Gail and asked her to join him. On the dance floor, their friend Larry remarked "it looks as though you have been dancing together for years!" John drove Gail home that night, and impressed her deeply by not stealing a kiss. Gail loved that about him, he was a gentleman through and through.

When he had already committed to attend a dance with a different young lady, he honored his word before seeing Gail again because that's who he was. Soon, John and Gail were inseparable and enjoyed time together going out to eat, seeing movies (An Affair to Remember was their favorite), dancing, and talking for hours, simply enjoying each other's company and dreaming about their future. Within a few months, John knew he had found his forever love. He asked Gail to marry him, and she said yes. They married on August 31st, 1957, and on each anniversary would laugh about how they wished they had chosen October 21st, the day they met.

They built their cherished home in 1961, and over the next 65 years, they built a life inside it that was even more remarkable. With five children and constant house projects, the layout seemed to be ever changing. Their home became a gathering place, full of laughter and celebrations with family. Trips to amusement parks, time in the Northwoods fishing and boating with their kids, lively parties, and quiet evenings together were all woven into the tapestry of their marriage.

Sundays meant church, followed by exploring Seven Bridges in Grant Park or the Milwaukee Public Museum with his children and always a stop at Grebe's Bakery on the way home. For many years, John generously volunteered his skills in bookkeeping and served as an usher at St. Stephen's Catholic Church, offering his steady hand and sharp mind in service to his community.

John had a big love for the casino, enjoyed a good card game, and Friday night bowling at Red Carpet Lanes South. He loved traveling across the country with Gail visiting National Parks and landmarks, always in awe of nature's beauty.

He was never content to simply sit still, he was always building. Plane models lined his shelves, model trains wound their way through carefully crafted landscapes, and meticulously cross-stitched artwork was displayed on the walls. If it could be imagined, John was already figuring out how to bring it to life. His hands were rarely idle, and his creativity seemed endless.

As Grandpa, he delighted in life's sweetest moments: homemade kettle popcorn shared while watching movies, reading the "funnies," building K'nex masterpieces, and long walks through many parks where "Lions, Tigers and Bears, oh my!" could spark much laughter and adventure. Holler Park was the go-to spot for Chuckles candy, enjoyed with plenty of chuckles along the way. He also had a mischievous streak and loved to joke that he couldn't say "Copurnicus" -only "Pumpernickel!" Always delivering the line with a grin.

John had a great sense of humor and quick wit, a deep commitment to his family, and a love for his wife that endured nearly seven decades. He was a man who built a beautiful life, anchored in faith, devotion, and joy. The greatest work of his life was the family he so lovingly guided, each life a reflection of his values and his boundless heart.

John is preceded in death by his parents; sister Mary (the late Eddie) Warkoczewski; son John Daniel; life long friends Marlene Nowak, Larry Cesarz, Arnie and Betty Ann Grzesk; sister-in-law Gloria Ligocki; and in-laws Don and Bette Nogay, Duane and Peggy Kotke, Dean and Bernice Kotke, and Bonnie and Ronnie Brandt.

He is survived by his loving wife Gail; brother Raymond Ligocki; and children Daniel Ligocki, James (Dawn) Ligocki, Robert (Holly) Ligocki, and Jean Ligocki (Jill Hauk).

John's legacy lives on through his grandchildren Bethany (Matthew), Eric (Kate), Ryan (Amanda), Jordynn (Luke), Lori (Dewey), J.J. (Rachel), Lauren (Trevor), and Andrea (Jack). He will be adoringly remembered by his 10 great-grandchildren Alixandra, Audrey, Caleb, Analynn, Olivia, Isabella, Ben, Lucia, Rachel, and Summer.

John is further survived by longtime friends Jerry Nowak, Sharon Cesarz; and brother-in-law Dennis (Rose) Kotke. He will also be missed by nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

The family will be hosting a visitation at 10am on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at St. Stephen's Parish (1441 W. Oakwood Rd, Oak Creek) before a funeral mass at 11am, with a luncheon gathering to follow.

John's family extends a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Baman and Dr. Jella for their extraordinary care over the years, and to RN Jessica, CNA Amanda, SW Jill, RN Todd, and Chaplain Colson of Aurora Home Hospice for their devoted and compassionate support.