Dennis S. Lukaszewski

Dennis Lukaszewski, Milwaukee, passed away on Sunday, January 9, 2022 at the age of 76. Beloved husband of Barbara Lukaszewski (nee Rezell). Cherished and fun dad of Lisa Curley, Sandy (Ken) Lukaszewski-Rose, and Angie Lukaszewski (Dan Lesch). Best Bapa to DJ, Michaela and Colton Curley, and Cecelia Rose. Also survived by siblings Elaine (Bernard) McGinley, James Lukaszewski and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Stanley & Angeline Lukaszewski, sister Cecelia (Al) Dobbs. Some of you may have known him as Friend, Boss, Mentor, Hort God, Gourd King, the man on the tractor, the kohlrabi king, pumpkin guy, videographer, 4-H Leader, the flower shop owner, the landscaper, the camper, the beekeeper, the fisherman, Jolly Green Giant, the oldest millennial, or the Willy Wonka of Horticulture (his ideas always had a hint of magic in them). His family knew him as a husband, dad, Bapa and a man who proved the theorem that love is renewable and the only way to make more is to give more. Dennis attended St.Josaphat Parish School for his early education; he was a cute kid with a twinkle in his eye and for the record, he claims he didn’t punch the globe. He was an active member in 4-H as a youth. He graduated from Notre Dame High School and attended the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee where he was a lineman on the football team and a member of the Delta Sigma Kappa fraternity. In college, he met the love of his life, Barb, his wife of 53 years. After graduating from UWM with a BS in Biological Aspects of Conservation, he managed the biology greenhouse for Marquette University, and during this time he met many of his lifelong friends and made some amazing memories. He became a certified landscape architect, designing spaces for some high profile individuals. To grow his landscaping business, he opened Eden II Flower Shop in several locations, including the new Grand Avenue Mall. This business provided many opportunities, such as the ability to showcase his landscape and unique floral arranging abilities at the Wisconsin State Fair in the Flower Building. During this time, he met many of his lifelong friends and made some amazing memories. Dennis joined the staff at UW Extension in 1990 which allowed him to utilize his skills as a community builder, gardener, and burgeoning entomologist. As the Urban Agriculture Educator, he upgraded and expanded the community garden program in Milwaukee County where some of his happiest times were on the tractor as an urban farmer. He worked with the office for Persons with Disabilities to promote therapeutic horticulture at Wil-O-Way and other senior centers in the area. He was integral in developing the Urban Apiculture Program and teaching the curriculum. Dennis worked with the SEW Master Gardeners to create an educational exhibit at State Fair and collaborated with Urban Anthropology to beautify the Lincoln Avenue neighborhood. Recently, he was proud to have played a role in developing a community garden at Our Lady Of Lourdes, his home parish. Dennis was awarded the UW-Colleges and UW-Extension Chancellor's Career Award in 2017 and many other accolades throughout his career. During this time, he met many of his lifelong friends and made some amazing memories. As a father, Bapa, and mentor to many other youth, Dennis was a positive influence and someone you wanted to emulate. He taught us to find fun in everything (even work), keep things light, build valuable jag time into every adventure, get involved in the community, build and tend to a (very large) campfire, change a tire, put a worm on a hook, pitch a tent, tell a good joke, enjoy and respect fireworks, enjoy being POD, play in the dirt, find out what drives people to do stuff, find the bargain, and never overlook the Wow factor. And, the most important lesson, ‘Don’t be a baby’! We are glad we had him during his time on earth and we made some amazing memories. If you knew Dennis, you likely have many stories in your heart. He probably laughed easily at your joke, had an idea that you should try, or involved you in a plant craft. To honor Dennis, respect nature, be creative and be kind to each other. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: UW-Extension Tractor Purchase and Upkeep for Community Gardens: https://secure.supportuw.org/give/ (online payment) please note: Urban Garden Equipment Fund OR Build a Gathering Area in his honor at Kohl Farm: send a check to: UW-Extension, Lukaszewski Gathering Area, 6737 W. Washington St. #2202, West Allis, WI 53214 We will celebrate Dennis on Sunday, May 22, 2022 - please save the date. Please contact family for more information.