Richard Watroba

Richard J. Watroba, age 88, of Gleason, passed away on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at his home while woodworking in his shop.  He was born on March 5, 1932 to the late Anthony & Mary (Urbanski) Watroba in Chicago, Illinois.

Richard served in the United States Army.  He married Mary Janiczek on May 19, 1957.  Richard worked at Western Electric in Chicago for many years.  In 1971, Richard & Mary purchased a dairy farm in Gleason, WI, where they farmed for 25 years.  After farming, Richard decided to go back to work and spent time at Wire Products in Merrill.  He enjoyed watching football with his favorite team being the Chicago Bears.  Richard also liked to watch hockey games when the Chicago Blackhawks were playing.  He had a passion for woodworking, a wonderful vegetable garden, fed & watched the birds at his home and each day he spent quality time with his fur companion, “Gidget” which was always a joy.  He will be dearly missed.

Richard is survived by his children: Cynthia (Robert A.) Koehler, Hamburg, Debra (Jerome) Grawien, Merrill, two grandchildren: Andrew (Kendall Nelson) Grawien, Merrill, Alexsis Koehler, Hamburg, beloved dog, “Gidget”, many other relatives & friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years Mary Watroba, siblings, and grandson John Koehler.

Services will be held at 6:00 PM on Friday, November 6, 2020 at Waid Funeral Home.  Fr. Mariadas Vallabhaneni will be officiating.  Visitation will be from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Waid Funeral Home on Friday, November 6, 2020.  Burial will be at a later date in St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Bloomville.

Social distancing and masks will be required in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be given to the Lincoln County Humane Society or the charity of your choice.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.