- Visitation will be held on Saturday, November 22nd from 9:30am to Noon at St. Louis Catholic Church (13207 County Rd G, Caledonia)
- Funeral service will take place on Saturday, November 22nd at Noon at St. Louis Catholic Church (13207 County Rd G, Caledonia)
- Procession will take place on Saturday, November 22nd going to Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery immediately following the funeral service.
- Military honors will take place on Saturday, November 22nd at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
Ralph Lewandowski
Went home to the Lord on November 9th, 2025, at the age of 93. Ralph was born on March 27th, 1932, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to John and Frances (nee Kowalski). Beloved husband of Marilyn (nee Marsch) for 68 years. Devoted dad to Teri (Pete) Jacobson, Lori (Karl) Schultz, Amy (Greg) Kalski, and Mark (Julie). Loving Papa to Tyler (Jennifer) Jacobson, Jason (Jessica) Jacobson, Sarah (Matt) Baumann, Kenny Schultz, Kristen (Jesse) Sauer, Steven Schultz, Samantha (Bryce) Boortz, Joey (Naomi) Kalski, Josh (Carolyn) Lewandowski, Collin and Caden Lewandowski. Loving “Papa Great” to Lincoln, Monroe, Jackson, Jordyn, Brooks, Macie, Karter, Ryker, and Lila. Brother of late Florence (Arnold) Gruenwald, John, Jacob (Evelyn), Joseph (Ursula), Bernice (Robert) Jelinek, Evelyn (Laddie) Vavera, Martin (Marie), George (Dolores), Audrey Hagemann. Survived by brother in law Gilbert Hagemann.
Born with a strong sense of duty, Ralph served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War, where he was awarded the Purple Heart for his bravery. His love of country continued throughout his life — he was a proud member of the American Legion Post 494 as well as the VFW, and his patriotism shone through in everything he did.
After his military service, Ralph built a long and dedicated career of 44 years at Maynard Steel. Yet his proudest accomplishment was always raising and taking care of his family.
A man of deep faith, Ralph was a longtime member and usher of St. Louis Catholic Church, where he also received an award recognizing his outstanding volunteer service. He found joy in giving back, in lending a helping hand, and in living his faith through kindness and laughter.
When he wasn’t working or volunteering, Ralph loved spending time outdoors tending his garden and yard, and he could often be found enjoying a friendly game of cards, bowling, or horseshoes. He also had a keen fondness for stuffed animals. His love of music — especially polka, classical, swing, and big band — filled his home with warmth. He often said, “The best way to listen to music is with your eyes closed.”
Family meant everything to Ralph. He rarely missed a grandchild’s sporting event, and Sundays were sacred — a time to gather, share a meal (pork chops were his favorite), and fill the house with laughter. To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was lovingly known as “Papa” and “Papa Great,” a title that brought him endless joy and pride.
Known for his humor and his ability to make people smile, Ralph had a sweet tooth and a simple appreciation for life’s pleasures — cookies (especially his wife’s Christmas cookies), chocolate, Dilly Bars, peanuts in the shell, and the taste of a good beer shared in good company.
He was deeply proud of his Polish heritage, his faith, and his family — the three pillars that defined his life. Ralph will be remembered for his strength, his laughter, and the love he poured into every moment. His legacy of faith, family, and kindness will continue to live on in all who knew and loved him.
Visitation will take place on Saturday, November 22nd, 2025, at ST. LOUIS CATHOLIC CHURCH (13207 County RD G, Caledonia) at 9:30am with a funeral service to follow at Noon. Procession will take place following the funeral service to SOUTHERN WISCONSIN VETERANS MEMORIAL CEMETERY (21731 Spring St., Union Grove) where military honors will be held.
Ralph’s family would also like to extend their utmost thanks and gratitude for the outstanding care he received from the entire staff at the Union Grove Veterans Home. Also, the Aurora hospice staff for their compassionate care and support.
If so desired, please consider memorials to St. Louis Catholic Church or the Wisconsin Veterans Home in Union Grove.
He sounds a lot like my dad. I have a feeling they’re both in heaven having a great time listening to polka music, playing cards and eating peanuts. It’s hard to lose them, but it’s nice to think that they are with other beautiful spirits just like them. My condolences to your family.
I had the pleasure of working with Ralph in therapy at the VA. He had a fun and memorable personality – sometimes a bit stubborn or sassy, but always in a way that brought humor and light to our sessions. One of my favorite memories was after he was discharged; I’d stop by to say hello, and with his hearing loss he’d yell “what do you want!?”. The best part was he’d break into the biggest smile when he realized I was just stopping in to say hi.
I also have the pleasure of working with Lori at SWC, and through her stories, I felt I came to know Ralph beyond being one of my patients. I’m so grateful to have known him.
My deepest condolences – he will truly be missed.