Gary E. Krajnik, age 82, a resident of Manitowoc, passed away at home on Monday, September 27, 2021.
Gary was born on June 1, 1939 in Rockwood to the late Erwin and Anna (Leggio) Krajnik (Krainik). The family moved to Manitowoc where Gary grew up attending Goodwin School and Holy Innocents Catholic School. A 1957 graduate of Lincoln High School, Gary served in the United States Army Reserves after which he earned an associate teaching degree from Manitowoc County Teachers College. He continued his education at Oshkosh State College while teaching in North Lake.
Gary worked for the Manitowoc County Highway Department for many years from where he retired. In 1967 he obtained a real estate license. Gary especially liked working for Lakeshore Realtors, Inc. as this provided an opportunity to meet new people and establish new friendships.
In retirement, Gary enjoyed garage sales, estate sales, and collecting “items of value” just as much as he enjoyed giving away the treasures he uncovered in his frequent excursions around the county. He delighted in bringing joy to family and friends, often with unexpected gifts like flowers, cabbages, or candy bars. He will always be remembered for his generosity and kindness.
Gary was at his best when surrounded by the natural wonders of Manitowoc County. He thoroughly enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was passionate about preserving the local environment by educating and encouraging others to enjoy and appreciate the outdoor beauty of the county. Gary was instrumental in organizing the construction of the Tower at Collins Marsh State Wildlife Area. He was an active member of many local organizations that preserve and protect our natural resources including Conservation Education Incorporated, Two Rivers Fish and Game, Manitowoc Fish and Game, NE WI Great Lakes Sport Fishing, Rockea Hunting Club, and Friends of Camp Sinawa. Gary was also a member of the Manitowoc Yacht Club for many years.
Gary is survived by his daughter, Michelle Krajnik, Manitowoc; son, Tim Krajnik, Green Bay; two grandsons, Preston and Garrett Krajnik; five siblings, Gail (Don) O’Hearn, Dana Point, CA; Jeannie (Ken) Tuschl, Nashville, TN; Mary (Stan) Grall, Manitowoc; Emily Krainik, Asheville, N.C.; and Joseph Krainik, Lancaster, PA. Gary was a cherished and memorable uncle to his nieces and nephews including Shawn O’Hearn, Kelley O’Hearn Forte, Jason O’Hearn, Jonathan Tuschl, Josh Tuschl, Noelle Grall and Taylor Grall. Gary is further survived by long-time companion, Ginny Finnel and her family John (Mary) Finnel, Rick Finnel, Gina (Justin) Herman, and Jill Finnel; also many wonderful cousins, friends and caring neighbors.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents and stepparents, Randolph and Anna (Leggio) Bleser and Erwin and Jean Krainik; and his brother, Perry Krainik, Harriman, TN.
A Celebration of Life Social will be held on Thursday, October 14, 2021 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Harrigan Parkside Gathering Center, 620 North Water Street, Manitowoc, located on the south property of the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home. Cremation has taken place at the Harrigan Parkside Crematory and Chapel. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.harriganparksidefuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials in Gary’s name that support wildlife conservation efforts.
The Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home and Crematory, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc is assisting the family with funeral arrangements.
