Jeffrey "Jeff" P. Rekowski

Jeffrey “Jeff” Paul Rekowski, 68, of Wausau, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, August 21, 2025, under the compassionate care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services.

Jeff was born on May 2, 1957, in Wausau, son of the late Anthony and Dorothy (Dawiedczyk) Rekowski. On May 10, 1986, he married the love of his life, Laurie (Heinrich). From that day forward, Laurie was not only his partner but his greatest source of strength—walking beside him through every joy, every challenge, and especially during his final journey, where her love, patience, and care never wavered.

Jeff worked at Wausau Papers in Brokaw, Wisconsin for many years before transitioning to Neenah Paper in Whiting, Wisconsin, where he retired.

A man who found joy in the outdoors, Jeff loved fishing, camping, hunting, golfing, boating, downhill skiing, and four-wheeling. He also enjoyed fixing things, such as small engines and enjoyed many projects. He was always ready to lend a helping hand. Yet, above all his passions, Jeff’s greatest pride and happiness came from his family.

Jeff shared an unbreakable bond with his children, Jody and Tara, who he guided with unconditional love and support, as well as his son-in-law, Shane, as he thought of him as his own son. His role as “Grandpa” to Mackenzie and Archer was the role he cherished most. His relationship with them was extraordinary—not defined by occasional visits, but by the gift of daily presence. There was never a day that passed without him either seeing them in person or talking with them on the phone or FaceTime, often multiple times a day. He celebrated not only their games and activities but also every small accomplishment and detail of their everyday lives, from school projects to little victories that might otherwise go unnoticed. To Mackenzie and Archer, he was more than a grandparent—his love shaped their world in immeasurable ways.

Jeff will be remembered as a son, a husband who adored his wife, a father who loved without measure, a grandfather whose devotion knew no boundaries, a brother who leaned on and appreciated his family, and a friend to many.

He is survived by his loving wife, Laurie; children, Jody Rekowski and Tara (Shane) Herdt; grandchildren, Mackenzie and Archer Herdt; siblings, Marilyn (Arden) Rindfleisch, Mike (Sandy), Thomas (Darlene), Mark (Jayne), and Paul (Beth Anne) Rekowski; along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at Holy Name Catholic Church, 1104 South Ninth Avenue, Wausau, with Rev. Woodrow Pace presiding. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. until the time of service, all at the church. Burial will follow in Restlawn Memorial Park. Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the Aspirus Cancer Center, UW Madison, and the Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services for the compassionate care and support given to Jeff and his family. They would also like to thank Jeff’s siblings and their spouses for the love, care and help they endlessly provided throughout his life. Above all, they wish to honor Laurie, whose tireless devotion, compassion, and love were the foundation of Jeff’s life and comfort in his final days.

Jeff’s legacy of love, laughter, and family devotion will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, especially in the daily lives of his grandchildren, where his presence will forever be felt.