John D. Watkowski

John D. Watkowski, age 61, of Winona, passed away on Monday, March 4, 2024, at the Gundersen Health System Hospital in La Crosse, WI.

He was born on January 5, 1963, in Winona, to James and Patricia (Pampuch) Watkowski, and was a graduate of Cotter High School.  Following high school, John completed training at the Police Academy in Alexandria, MN, and went on to a 23-year career as a deputy with the Winona County Sheriff’s Department, retiring in 2006.

John also worked part-time as a mechanic and shop manager for Angst Motor Service and became full time with them after retiring from the Sheriff’s Department. In 2009, John and his son, Sam, started a trucking company, Cedar Valley Custom, in which he was active until his passing.

He will be remembered for his love of working on his hobby farm in Cedar Valley, building trucks, and he was a devoted and active member of the Winona Athletic Club, currently serving as its President.

John’s greatest joy in life was his family – he especially cherished the time spent with his son, and his granddaughters were the apples of his eye.   He will be deeply missed.

John is lovingly survived by his son, Sam (Kendra) Watkowski; step-daughter, Nikki Schossow; grandchildren: Rylee, Rylen, Rynlee, and Chase; siblings: Kim (Richard) Wanek, Jean (Rick) Papenfuss, Jim (Anne) Watkowski, Mike Watkowski, Lynn Watkowski, and Karen Sorum; nieces and nephews: Jake (Nicole) Wanek, Jeremy Kujak, Toni Drazkowski, Will Kujak, Brandon (Bethany) Papenfuss, Lance Papenfuss, Patrick (Emily) Sullivan, Matthew Sullivan, and Jennifer Schams; as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and many friends.  

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be held from 11 AM until the funeral service at 3 PM on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, at the Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home, 376 E. Sarnia St., Winona. Deacon Justin Green will officiate.

Following the service, a celebration of John’s life will continue at the Winona Athletic Club.

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