Sgt. Phillip James Kazmierski Jr.

SGT Phillip James Kazmierski Jr., a devoted husband, loving father, and proud veteran, passed away at the age of 61 in Zablocki VA Milwaukee, after a brave battle with cancer. He was born in Wisconsin on November 10, 1961, and on October 9th, 2023 he entered into eternal rest.

Phil was a man of many proud life accomplishments, but his most notable accomplishment was his military career. He rose to the rank of E5 Sergeant, serving in the Gulf War, deployed during Operation Desert Storm. His service included many locations but most notable are Germany, New York, and Kansas. He was a proud soldier of the Army's Big Red One and was awarded numerous commendations for his service, including the Army Commendation Medal (3rd Award), Army Achievement Medal (5th Award), Meritorious Unit Commendation, and the National Defense Service Medal, among others.

Beyond his military accomplishments, Phil was a man of many interests and passions. He found solace in the tranquility of fishing and the vastness of the ocean. He cherished time with his family, playing Zelda with his daughter Amber, and camping and cruising with his beloved wife, Lynn. and spending time with his grandchildren. Phil had a knack for finding joy in the simple things, such as exploring new small towns with his children during his overseas deployment in Germany or taking his dog for walks around Menards or the mall. He always enjoyed watching the Packers with his siblings and all the family; and he spoke often of the most memorable fishing trip this summer with his brothers John and Bob.

Phil’s life is reminded by a quote from Robert H. Schuller: "Tough times never last, but tough people do." He was not only tough, but he was also friendly, handy, and loving. He faced his PTSD head-on, openly discussing his experiences and encouraging fellow veterans and servicemen and women to do the same. His bravery extended well beyond the battlefield, into the realm of mental health and service connected cancer, where he became a beacon of hope for others. He was adored by his VA team and everyone who learned his story.

Phil's legacy is carried on by his wife, Lynn Janet Kazmierski, his daughters Nancy J. Tobritzhofer, Amber L. Oetlinger, & Mandi Stys; his son in laws James Tobritzhofer and Mark Oetlinger. His spirit will live on in his grandchildren; Brady Reusser, Mark Oetlinger Jr., Cory Oetlinger, Smith Tobritzhofer, and Sedona Tobritzhofer. He is survived by his siblings Mike Kazmierski (Mary), Sue Castro (Tom), John Kazmierski (Diane), Robert Kazmiersk (Amy), Larry Kazmiersk (Michelle) and Lorraine Inda (Scott). Many nieces and nephews will continue to fondly remember their "Uncle Foof or Fufu". His loyal companion and service dog, Sarge, will miss him dearly. He was greeted in heaven by his parents Philliip Sr and Marylin, his older brother Jim and many other cherished family.

Phil's life was an inspiration to many, a testament to resilience, service, and the power of love. He touched the lives of countless individuals, from his extended family to the many friends he made along his journey; and always Phil traveled thru his life making others laugh. He loved to joke and smile with everyone, which so many of us will never forget. His legacy will continue to inspire and motivate those who had the privilege to know him.

We remember SGT Phillip Kazmierski Jr., not just for his military service, but for the man he was - a loving family man, a caring friend, a proud veteran, a jokester, and an inspiring figure who left a lasting impact on everyone he met. His memory will forever be a beacon of resilience and strength, motivating us all to keep going, no matter what challenges we face.

Memorial Gathering will be held at Max A. Sass & Sons-Mission Hills Chapel (8910 W. Drexel Ave., Franklin, WI) on Friday November 3 starting at 9AM until time of memorial service at 11:30AM. Following services, we will be meeting at the Wood National Cemetery office building (5000 W. National Ave., Building 1301, Milwaukee) for honors and committal service at 1PM. If you plan on attending the burial, please meet at cemetery office no later than 12:55PM.  Phillip will have his ashes buried with his father, the late Phillip Kazmierski.