Josephine "Josie" Wisialowski

Josephine "Josie" Wisialowski, a beacon of spirited joy and creative energy, passed away peacefully at Zilber Family Hospice on June 3, 2024, at the age of 74. Born on November 13, 1949, in Milwaukee, WI, Josie was a force of nature and a true original.

Josie was the loving daughter of the late Joseph and Sophie Micek, and she carried the legacy of her parents' nurturing love throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of over 52 years, Dennis Wisialowski, and her in-laws, Richard and Theresa Wisialowski.

Josie's role as a mother to Mark (Heather) Wisialowski and Karen (Ryan) Gonzalez was one she cherished deeply. She instilled in her children the values of love, resilience, and the importance of family. Her joy multiplied with the birth of her grandchildren Benjamin, Sophie, and Matthew Gonzalez, as well as with the addition of Colin Clark.

She is survived by her loving sisters, Diane Micek (Cyrus Wolf) and Chris (Al) Severin; her sister-in-law Darlene (Randy) Biedrzycki; and her caring nephews, Brian (Becky) Biedrzycki, Kevin (Debbie) Biedrzycki, Steve Wieczorkowski, Nick Wieczorkowski, and countless friends. Each friend and family member carries a piece of Josie's spirit in their hearts, a testament to the profound impact she had on their lives.

A proud alumna of Notre Dame High School, Milwaukee, Josie's commitment to caring for others led her to earn an Associate's Degree in Nursing from MATC. Her vocational journey as a Licensed Practical Nurse included dedicated service in the ER at St. Luke's Medical Center, as well as the Float Pool and Oncology Department at St. Francis Hospital. Josie found a true calling serving as a Bereavement Coordinator and was an integral member of the Ethics Team at St. Francis Hospital for over 20 years. During that time she earned a Certificate of Theology from Marquette University.

Josie's professional life was a testament to her unwavering commitment to provide comfort and care to those in their most vulnerable moments. Her empathy and kindness shone brightly, touching the lives of countless individuals and their families.

Josie's zest for life extended to her many interests and hobbies. She was an avid crafter and painter and sewing enthusiast, often creating beautiful works that she shared with her friends and family. Her competitive spirit came alive during monthly games of dominos with her special friends, and she found joy in the simple pleasure of shopping, always on the lookout for the perfect treasure to take home and share with Dennis.

Those who knew Josie would describe her as a woman of great courage, never shying away from challenges and always advocating for those in need. Her creative soul found expression in every aspect of her life, and her spirited nature was infectious, impacting everyone around her.

Josie's legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and the unyielding power of love. Her life was a beautiful tapestry woven with the countless lives she touched, both personally and professionally. As we bid farewell to Josephine "Josie" Wisialowski, we celebrate the remarkable woman she was and the enduring impact she has left on the world.

In keeping with Josie's lifelong dedication to service and care, her final hours at Zilber Hospice were spent surrounded by the love of her family and friends and the care of the compassionate staff, for which her family is eternally grateful.

Visitation and a Memorial Mass will be held at Saint Martin of Tours Parish (7963 S. 116th St., Franklin, WI 53132) on Thursday, June 13, 2024 (visitation 11:00am-1:00pm, Mass immediately following)

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to University of Wisconsin Foundation, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, and Zilber Family Hospice.