Joseph Walinski

Joseph J. Walinski, age 88, of Winona, passed away on Sunday, February 7, 2021, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family, after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.

He was born on March 14, 1932, in Winona, to Henry and Mary (Przybylski) Walinski, and was a graduate of Cotter High School.

Joe honorably served his country with the United States Marine Corps from 1951 – 1954, and was deployed overseas during the Korean War. He was a member of the American Legion and the Hiawatha Valley Marines. Joe was united in marriage with Roseanne (Rosie) Waletzke on September 13, 1969, in Winona.

He was employed with the US Army Corps of Engineers for 30 years, until his retirement.

Joe was a member of the Winona Athletic Club, the Eagles Club, the Polish Cultural Institute, the Left Hander’s Club, and of the Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka.

He will be remembered for his enjoyment of the outdoors hunting, trapping, fishing, and spending time at their place on the Mississippi river. He always had a story to tell, laughed often, and just loved life.

Joe is lovingly survived by his wife, Rosie; son: Tony (fiancée Becca Ziebarth) Walinski; daughters: Sharon Fonfara and Marie (Matthew) Jaszewski; grandchildren: Jason (Carrie) Jaszewski, Benjamin (Kelley) Jaszewski, Lindsay (William) Shackelton, and Samuel Walinski; great-grandchildren: Charlotte Jaszewski, Jameson Jaszewski, and Aubrey Shackelton; brother: George Walinski; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and his sisters: Henrietta, Dorothy, Bernice, and Sylvia.

Due to current health concerns and restrictions, a family service is being planned.  Joe will be laid to rest in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Memorials may be directed to Winona Health Hospice Services or Gundersen Health System.

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