Racine – Joseph J. Dembowski, Jr., 67, entered into eternal life on Sunday, March 4, 2012. He was born in Racine on September 9, 1944, son of the late Joseph J. and Mable (nee: Held) Dembowski, Sr. Joseph was united in marriage to Barbara (nee: Downing) Dembowski on November 4, 1989.
Joe graduated from Horlick High School in 1962. Following graduation, he faithfully served his country in the United States Army during Vietnam. Joe loved to analyze the financial markets and manage his personal portfolio. He enjoyed scuba diving, water skiing, and snow skiing. Joe took fishing trips to Minocqua every year with his family over Memorial Day weekend. The family also enjoyed spending time camping together at Rock River Leisure Estates and at the waterparks near the Wisconsin Dells. Joe and Barb loved to travel together and vacationed at destinations such as Florida, Hawaii, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. He will be dearly missed by family and friends.
Joe leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of over twenty years, Barb Dembowski of Racine; daughter, Kim (Todd) Weber of Kenosha; sisters, Debrah (Hank) Erdman, Lisa Dembowski, both of Racine; sisters-in-law, Rita Patino of Racine, Jody Voss of Las Vegas; brothers-in-law, David Downing of Arizona, Rocky Downing of Washington; nieces, Michelle (Jim Woodward) Erdman, Jennifer Woodward; nephews, Reza Dembowski, Kyle Erdman, Jeremy Erdman, Alex Woodward, Lucas Woodward; and other relatives too numerous to mention. In addition to his parents, Joe is preceded in death by his son, Charles Thomas Sliker, Jr.
A celebration of Joe’s life will take place on Thursday, March 8, 2012, 7pm, at Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home, 4600 County Line Road, with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Visitation will be from 5pm until the time of the service. A committal service with full military honors will take place on Friday, March 9, 2012, 11am, at West Lawn Memorial Park Chapel.
The family would like to extend a heart-felt “Thank You” to Dr. Mullane and his staff, the staff of Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare – All Saints, and Joe’s WFH homecare nurse, Amanda, who took such good care of him during his illness.
Jan Kampa-Tews says
Dear Kim and Family~
I send you my deepest sympathy and prayers. Nothing ever prepares us for the loss of a loved one. I am so sorry for your loss.
Dina (Kitz) OBrien says
You have my deepest sympathy in the loss of Chip. I have fond memories of him from my youth.
Carol McClain says
Keeping the family in my thoughts & prayers. Also sending caring hugs to my dearest friend, Lisa, at this very difficult time.
Rhonda O'Connor says
Dear Kim,
My heart sank as I heard the news this week of your father passing away. I hope you realize that your friends & co-workers at Vernon School care about you & will support you during this difficult time.
GOD BLESS YOU!!!
Love,
Rhonda O’Connor
Carol 'Taskinen' Wondra says
I have many fond memories growing up right across from the Dembowski family.One was going w/Joe,Mabel,Chip,Lisa & Deb to Devils Lake. Such a loss is hard to comprehend. Barb,Just remember he will always be near you,loving you as he did while here.My deepest sympathy to you all.