Walter J. Kujak

Walter J. Kujak, known to his loved ones as King Wallace, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 12, 2024, at the Mayo Hospital in La Crosse, WI.

He was born on November 25, 1959, in Arcadia, WI, the ninth of the fifteen children of Daniel and Leona (Benson) Kujak, Sr. He was united in marriage with Holly Fruetel on September 27, 2008.

Throughout his life, Wally was employed in 15 different companies throughout the Winona area. He was a hard worker who had big biceps muscles that his family called his ‘rocks.’

Described as someone with a big heart, Wally was known for his kindness and generosity. Those who had the pleasure of knowing him can say that when he was good, he was truly great. His warm personality touched the lives of many and Wally will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

In his free time, Wally found joy in simple pleasures. He loved family gatherings and unwinding with a beer while visiting with family and friends. One of his passions was admiring, discussing, and fixing up older cars, especially Cadillacs. Wally also enjoyed attending garage and estate sales, always on the hunt for his next ‘big’ find. A daily pleasure was trying his luck on scratch-off tickets; although the big jackpots always alluded him. Wally was an avid sports fan as well, and closely followed the Twins, Vikings, Wild, and Winona State Warriors men’s basketball teams.

Wally will be remembered for his love of music, especially classic rock and country. He could often be spotted jamming to music in his car and when he was fishing.

Wally is survived by his wife, daughters: Mindi (Andy) Schultz and Mandi (Gordie) Johnson; his son, Taylor (Danielle) Kujak; step daughters: Kiecila, Kendra, and Kimberly; siblings: Gary (Shar), John, Chris Johnson, Daniel Jr. (Kathy), Edward (Danelle), James (Lori), Andrew (Kathy), Brian, Nancy (Nancy), Kathy (John) Thompson, and Tony; 13 grandchildren; and numerous other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Howard, Stanley, and Jeff; brother-in-law: Dennis Johnson; and niece: Tina Johnson.

Visitation will be held from 10 AM until the funeral service at 11:30 AM on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 376 E. Sarnia St., Winona. Deacon Justin Green will officiate. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Pine Creek, WI.

After the burial, a celebration of life with lunch will be held at The Athletic Club, 773 East 5th Street in Winona beginning at 2 PM. 

In lieu of flowers please give contributions towards funeral expenses. 

Online condolences or memories may be left for Wally’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.