Henry J. Blarek Jr.

Henry “Hank” Blarek, Jr., age 80, of Hatley died unexpectedly Friday, April 24, 2026.

He was born February 5, 1946, to the late Henry Sr., and Lucille (nee Tryba) Blarek. On April 23, 1966, he married the love of his life, Bonnie Miller in Wausau at St. Paul Lutheran Church, and years later renewing their vows in the Catholic faith at St. Florian’s in Hatley.

A proud U.S. Army veteran, Hank served a tour in Vietnam with the 500 Engineer Corps, achieving the rank of E-5 Sergeant. His commitment to fellow veterans never faded. He was an active member of the American Legion Post 471 in Hatley and the VFW-Post 8068 in Elderon, and enjoyed delivering Christmas baskets for the VFW-Post in Ringle/Hatley. He volunteered countless hours with Man of Honor Society supporting veteran causes through raffles and events.

Hank dedicated 45 years of his career to Greenheck Fan, where he worked as a welder before retiring, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment. He found joy in the outdoors and the work of his hands, living a life shaped by patience, skill, and quiet determination. A successful hunter and excellent fisherman, he had a style all his own when it came to finding fish, one that seemed guided as much by instinct as experience. He was an awesome pool player, known for his sharp eye and steady hand at the table. In his spare time, he took pride in restoring International Harvester tractors, bringing old machines back to life with care and craftsmanship.

Hank was truly a “man for the people.” He served his community as a supervisor before being elected chairman of the Town of Ringle, a position he held for 26 years. Even in his final days, he remained connected to his town, driving through the devastation left by a recent tornado in the place he loved so deeply.

Faith was a cornerstone of Hank’s life and was a lifelong member of Knights of Columbus. He attended St. Ladislaus Catholic Church where he was an active member of the Men’s Society and Eucharistic Minister.

Devoted husband of 60 years of Bonnie Blarek. Loving father of Penny Blarek, and John Sr., (Jane) Blarek. Adoring grandfather of Ashley (Sean) Schramm, Steven (Scott) Augustine, Tia Growcock, Meranda (Aaron Mehlberg) Growcock, Kasey (Steve Larson) Blarek, Amber Blarek, and John Jr., (Kendra Socha) Blarek. Doting great-grandfather of Ayden, Jaxon, Kearson, Nolan, Jennifer, Brentley, and Huxley. Kind brother of Therese “Terri” (the Late Jim) Miller, James (Rita) Blarek, JoAnn (James) Davidowski, Barbara Morgan, George (Diane Weston) Blarek, Mark Blarek, the late Carleen, and the late Marlene. Fond brother-in-law of the late Lyle Miller, Noreen (Herbert) Fandrey, and Gary (Joyce) Miller. Caring father-in-law of Steven (Cari Behar-Growcock) Growcock and Stacey Blarek. Cherished friend of Bobby Walkowski, Chris Fuge, Tony Robl, Jim Streeter, and the Mott Family of Two Rivers. Loyal uncle, cousin, mentor, and friend to so many.

Hank will be remembered as a devoted husband, proud father and grandfather, great-grandfather, loyal friend, and a man who lived fully and gave generously. Whether casting a line, lining up a pool shot, or lending a hand, Hank left his mark wherever he went. His life reminds us to love fiercely, work hard, serve others, and never pass up the chance for one more game, one more laugh, or one more lap around the track.

Visitation will be 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at St. Ladislaus Catholic Church, Bevent, 173141 WI-153, Hatley, WI 54440. Visitation will resume Friday, May 1st 9:00 a.m. at St. Ladislaus until the Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment will be private. Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home, Wausau is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com