Edwin John Hilicki

Racine—Edwin John Hilicki, 89, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, October 23, 2010. Ed was born in Kenosha on May 18, 1921 to the late John and Stefania (nee: Borawska) Hilicki. A graduate of Mary D. Bradford High School, Ed went on to faithfully serve our Country with the United States Navy in WWII on the U.S.S. Tangier.  On August 22, 1945 he married the love of his life, Sophie T. (nee: Kuzia). For over 59 years they raised their loving family together in the city of Racine, surrounded by extended family and dear friends. Sophie preceded him in death on October 4, 2004.

Ed was a longtime member of St. Lucy Catholic Church. He was a valued employee of Modine Mfg. for over 20 years, retiring as a tool & die manager. Ed was a member of the Modine 20 Year Club. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed golfing with his friends of the Ives Grove Thursday Morning League. Ed was affectionately known as ‘Mr. Fix-it’ and could solve all kinds of construction and repair problems. But more than anything else he was known as beloved husband, father, and grandpa because he cherished every minute on this earth with his family. He was their role model for selflessness, care-taking and unconditional love.

Surviving are his daughters, Mary Ann Oertel and JoAnn (Daniel) Nicholson, both of Racine; son, Richard (Chris) Hilicki of Nashville, TN; grandchildren, Lorry (John) Matheson, Ronald Oertel, Jean (Ryan) Jossie, Brett (fiancé, Marcia Orcholwski) Nicholson and Megan Nicholson; great-granchildren, Maggie, Paige, Clair, and Reese. Ed will be missed by many other friends and extended relatives as well. In addition to his parents and wife, Ed was preceded in death by his sisters, Vincenta Hilicki and Harriet Kolkmann.

Ed’s family invite you to celebrate a Mass of Christian Burial on Wednesday, October 27, 2010 at St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Avenue, at 11:00 am with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Following the service he will be laid to rest, with military honors, in Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Visitation will be in the church on Wednesday from 10-11 am. In memory of Edwin, memorials to Habitat for Humanity (1501 Villa St.  Racine, WI  53403) have been suggested.