Valentine “Richard” Kotecki, 90, of Marinette passed away very peacefully on Friday, December 24, 2021, at Aurora Medical Center-Bay Area. He was born on May 27, 1931, to the late Valentine and Vincenta (Smolinski) Kotecki in Beaver, WI. After caring for his mother who passed away early in his life, he enlisted in the Army at 17 and served four years during the Korean War.
On September 26, 1953, Richard married Patricia “Pat” Gruszynski at St. Mary’s Church in Crivitz, WI. Together they had 7 children. During his life he worked for the Waupun State Prison as a guard for 3 years and for the DMV as a Driver's License Examiner. There he stood between hopeful 16 year-olds and their driving liberties for 35 years.
For many years he served as the treasurer for the Town of Peshtigo and was a charter member of the volunteer fire dept. Later, he would serve several terms on the Marinette County Board of Supervisors. He was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church and a member of the American Legion Post 280.
A long time independent logger, his children will tell you he was the type of man that relished physical labor and the feel of a chainsaw in his hands. They would know as many of them were right there alongside him, assisting by measuring and peeling the logs.
Richard enjoyed the company of countless dogs, deer hunting, going to “the shack” (his cabin), and spending time with family— especially his grandchildren. He will be remembered for his unparalleled work ethic and his straight-to-the-point demeanor.
Richard is survived by Pat, his wife of 68 years, along with daughters: Kathleen Barrette of Washington, PA, Debra Leemon of Menominee, Suzanne (Rich) Heinen and Pamela (Mike) Goes both of Marinette; sons: Rick (Lisa) Kotecki of Antigo, Mike (Liz) Kotecki of Sussex, and Scott (Steph) Kotecki of Menominee; 13 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by grandson, Coty Kotecki; son in law, Bob Leemon; and brother, Charles Kotecki.
Visitation will be held at Thielen Funeral Home on Friday, January 7th from 10am until noon. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Menominee at 12:30pm with Rev. Abraham Mupparathara officiating. Military Honors will be performed by the Military Twenty Year Club. Burial will be in Glenwood Memorial Gardens.
DUE TO COVID-19 FACE MASKS ARE REQUIRED
The family would like to extend a special Thank you to Dr. Daroach and Nurse Lesley Detry for the outstanding care given to Richard throughout his journey. To his “extended” family of caregivers whose unwavering commitment allowed him to live his life with dignity, thank you Ann Bretl, Renee Hood, Molly Kamin and Becky Jahnke. A very special thank you to The Bay at Woodlands whose team of dedicated staff including Suzanne, Kenzie and Therese made his and our life so much easier.
To the staff at Aurora Medical Center-Bay Area: Dr. Arora, ER, ICU, and 3rd Floor CNA’s, and Nurses. The compassionate, professional way in which you carry out your job duties is second to none. Thank you.
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