Richard Gawryleski

Richard Lee Gawryleski, age 86, passed away on Wednesday November 19, 2025, in Shawano, Wisconsin. He was born on May 12, 1939, and lived most of his life in the Pulaski and Gresham areas. Richard lived a full and vibrant life rooted in family, hard work, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

Richard was the beloved husband of Sandra (Krebsbach) Gawryleski, and a devoted father to, Linda (Bill) Verheyden, Sharon (Gus) Gerbers, Charlene (Dave) Windey, Greg (Andrea) Gawryleski and Stefanie (Tom) VanDeHei. He was a proud grandfather to, Mike Verheyden, and fiancé, Faith; Danielle Steinfeldt, Kurt Gerbers, Lisa Gerbers, Zachary (Amarah) Windey, Kylie Windey, Julia Gawryleski, Kate Gawryleski, Blake VanDeHei and Bennett VanDeHei. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Samantha, Brooklynn, Gracelynn, Jacob and Landon. Richard is survived by his siblings, James Gawryleski, Eugene (Lonna) Gawryleski and Connie Wishart. He is also survived by Sandra's siblings, Pat (Alan) Ridderbusch, Dan (Diane) Krebsbach, Dale (Linda) Krebsbach, Keith (Sherri) Krebsbach, Roger (Laurel) Krebsbach, Mary (Kevin) Lieders, Sue (Jerry) Grunow, Kevin (Beth) Krebsbach, Renee (David) Phillips, Jill (Joe) Goodwin and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Harriet Gawryleski; in-laws, Raymond and Melanie Krebsbach; sister, Carol Dudzik; brother, Randy Gawryleski; sister-in-law, Dawn Wood; brother-in-law, Darrel Krebsbach; sister-in-law, Ruth Ann Gawryleski; and niece, Denise Dudzik.

After a career of being a millwright, he continued to tinker as he was a man of many talents, Richard was known for his strong worth ethic, grilling talent, booyah making, and craftsmanship. Growing up on a farm in Pulaski instilled in him a lifelong love for agriculture- especially red tractors- which remained close to his heart throughout his life. Whether he was working with wood or solving puzzle books with quiet determination, Richard approached every task with care and precision.

He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, a good Ford pickup, hunting in the woods or fishing by the water's edge of Frog or Koonz Lake; traveling across the country-particularly to Estes Park, Colorado to visit Aunt Angeline-visiting national parks out west-or spending winters under Florida's sun in Navarre Beach. He loved sitting outside watching wildlife, cars, or boats pass by while soaking up the sunshine and enjoying a cold Budweiser.

Richard had a comical spirit paired with a stubborn streak that endeared him to those who knew him best. He cherished time spent playing cards with friends or family and monthly gatherings with his Rusty Zipper friends. He never met a small or medium sized dog that he couldn't befriend. Perhaps most memorable was his ever-present dinner fork-a quirky trademark that reflected both practicality and personality.

To those who knew him as Husband, Dad, or Papa- and even more so to those who knew him simply as Richard-he leaves behind memories filled with laughter, generosity and love.

May his memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to share in his remarkable journey. Please remember him as you do 10 'sit to stands' each day to keep up your strength. We all know he had quite the colorful vocabulary, but you must never use his most recent "bad word" exercise.

A memorial mass will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday November 29, 2025, at St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church with Fr. Hanz Christian officiating. Visitation will be held at the church on Saturday from 9:30 am until the time of service. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to American Cancer Society or the American Diabetes Association.

Appreciation and gratitude to Richard's care team: Green Bay Oncology, especially Dr. Grotelueschen; Thedacare at Home, Becky, Patty, Kennedy, Ron, Jaime; and Dr Fang. Your assistance and compassion eased Richard's journey for him and his family.