Wayne Edward Dutkiewicz

Wayne Edward Dutkiewicz, age 74 of Wautoma passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024 at his home. He was born on April 18, 1949 in Milwaukee, the eldest of 5 children of  Edward J. and Geraldine B. (Karolewicz) Dutkiewicz. Wayne served in the Army during the Vietnam war and was also stationed in Germany, where he was a mechanic on military equipment, mostly helicopters. After discharge from the Army he continued working in hydraulics and then punch press operation.  As his parents aged, he became their go-to person for help.  He was the ultimate helper to anyone he knew.  After the death of his father, he became the sole caregiver for 13 years for his mother.  That didn’t keep him from signing up for a booth at the flea market, carrying on the tradition started by his parents, while also depleting  the inventory they left behind.   For years he was the guardian of the “weekender” neighbors’ yards to inform them of storm damage, or clear driveways of snow.  In winter you could always find him out on the ice, fishing and telling tall tales.  Wayne’s last few years were a challenge due to failing health. In spite of it, he was always in good spirits and was widely looked out for by his neighbors and acquaintances.  It was comforting to his siblings, who all live out of the area.  Wayne will be remembered as one of the good guys. 

Wayne is survived by his siblings:  Deborah (Andrew) Lewandowski, Heidi (Thomas) Hybicki, Gail (Bruce) Gagner; one nephew: Nicholas Flynn; grandniece: Makayla Flynn; one aunt; numerous cousins and friends.   He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Jan. 

Military Honors and burial will take place at Central Wisconsin Veterans Cemetery, King at a later date.