John Steve Wasko

John “Crash” Steve Wasko, 73, Chetek, Wisconsin, passed away on February 13, 2026, at Meadowbrook in Chetek. He was born on April 26, 1952, in Rice Lake, Wisconsin, the son of Steve and Nila (Holbrook) Wasko.

John grew up in Chetek where he spent many hours in his father’s welding shop learning the trade. He remained in Chetek his entire life where he worked for the city of Chetek, as a custodian for Chetek and Cameron schools and as a caretaker for Lakeview cemetery in Chetek for many years.

In his early years he enjoyed stock car racing. He had a love for gardening. He also had a great love for all animals. John also loved fishing and deer hunting.

John is survived by his long-time significant other, Karen Turner of Chetek, sisters, Kim Toufar (Myles Brogren) of Chetek, Stevie Amundson, New Auburn, and Roberta (Kenneth) Anderson, Lakeville, MN, many nieces, nephews and his special friend Wade Bergner.

He was preceded in death by, his parents, Steve and Nila, sisters, Darla Arneson and Alice Waskey, brothers-in-law, Bob Arneson, Jim Waskey and Laird “Lar” Toufar.

A small graveside service will be held at the Lakeview Cemetery in Chetek in the spring. Please visit www.burnham-ours.com for an update on the date.