Paul E. Sukalich

Paul Edward Sukalich, 85, of Hartford, WI passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on May 14, 2012 at Lighthouse of West Bend. Paul was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI. He graduated from Boys Tech High School and from Marquette University with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Paul also served in the United States Army Air Force, attaining the rank of Sergeant and the decorations of the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon, Victory Medal, and Good Conduct Medal. He served in the Philippines, part of the time spent as a cryptographic technician. Paul married Jennie Knapek on May 1, 1948. They had three children: Paul, Patty, and Bob. Paul worked for Cutler Hammer, Schlitz, and Badger Meter during his career. He and Jennie lived in Milwaukee and Wauwatosa during their younger years. After retirement, they also traveled yearly to New Port Richey, FL before permanently returning to their home on Pike Lake in Hartford, WI. During this time they also enjoyed the company of nine grandchildren and 1 great-grandson. Paul was involved in his Catholic faith throughout his life as well as his community. He and Jennie were Eucharistic Ministers to shut-ins, hospital patients, and at Mass. Paul participated in the Junior Achievement program and Amateur Radio with the callsign N9XBY. The couple also enjoyed traveling the world, visiting much of Europe and the United States, as well as special trips to China, Egypt, and Rome. He was known for being able to fix just about anything, a passion he shared and inspired in grandson Corey (nee Christopher). Paul also had an insatiable sweet tooth, which coupled perfectly with Jennie’s talent and passion for baking. His favorite sayings that personify him include: - But for the grace of God, there go I. - There is no such word as “can’t” - The glass is half full, not half empty - Think positive! He was preceded in death by his father, Anton, mother, Mary, and elder sisters Elizabeth and Helen who both died as children. Paul is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 64 years, Jennie, his beloved children Paul (Sue), Patty, and Bob (Lynelle), his beloved grandchildren Sara, Kim, Maggie, Corey (nee Christopher), Maggie, David, Katie, Stephen, Mark, Mary, and great-grandson Samson. He is also survived by other relatives and friends. A special thank you to the caring, compassionate staff of Lighthouse of West Bend and Hospice Advantage. Visitation will be held on Friday, May 18 from 9:00 – 10:00 AM at the Chapel of Saint Therese at the Basilica of Holy Hill in Hubertus, WI. Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 AM in the Chapel. Rev. Fred Alexander will officiate. Entombment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery at 1:45 PM on Friday, May 18. In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to St. Mary of the Hill Parish and the Alzheimer’s Association. The family is being served by the Berndt-Ledesma Funeral Home of Hartford, WI. www.berndt-ledesma.com

Paul E. Sukalich

September 15, 1926 - May 14, 2012