Fred E. Pionek, 66

Fred E. Pionek, 66, of Stevens Point, after a long battle with COVID-19 complications, died Thursday evening, April 15, 2021, at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

He was born April 20, 1954, in Stevens Point to Cecelia M. (Kawleski) Pionek and the late Edward T. Pionek. Fred graduated from the Stevens Point Area Senior High (SPASH) in 1972 where he was more likely found in the parking lot, wearing down a set of tires doing “reverse to lows.” In 1974, he married Betty (Losinski) Pionek. They were married for 46 years prior to their divorce in July 2020.

Fred was a past volunteer for the Dewey Fire Department and drove semi over the road for many years. He established Fred’s Towing, which was a proud Southside business for nearly 20 years. His tow trucks were often part of the safety display and jaws of life demonstrations held at the local 4th of July celebrations.

After retiring from towing, he continued to run his storage unit business, SFM Enterprises. Fred enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping with his wife, daughters, and other family members. He spent many hours at the office, nicknamed “Club Fred,” and at South Point Cafe joking around with his buddies. If you were lucky, “Grumpy Cat” shared stories of the crazy towing adventures he happened upon. He enjoyed vacation travels to Alaska, Hawaii, and cruises to Europe, Central America, and through the Panama Canal.

However, a simple lakeside sunset in Door County was all he really needed to coax the elusive smile from him. He loved watching the outdoor theater productions in Peninsula State Park and attended other performances including Mamma Mia, Oklahoma, and the Moody Blues. Fred loved to join his mom to listen and comment on the weekend polka radio shows. The time he spent with his grandkids was the most treasured time.

Fred is survived by his former spouse, Betty, and their children, Kelly Ackley (former spouse Tracy), and Tracy Pionek (Laura); grandchildren Keagan Ackley and Adelynn Pionek. He is also survived by his mother, Cecelia, brothers, Roger (Donna), Eugene (Cindy), Jerry (Linda), William, Bruce (Michelle), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Fred was preceded in death by his father, Edward, niece, Robyn Pionek, and great-nephew, Nate Schude.

Funeral Services will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, April 23, 2021, at the Pisarski Funeral Home, 703 Second Street, Stevens Point. Deacon Vern Linzmeier officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Casimir Parish Cemetery. Family and friends may visit from 9 a.m. Friday morning until the time of services. The Pisarski Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.pisarskifuneralhome.com

Since Fred passed away from COVID-19 complications, the family respectfully requests all attendees follow social distancing guidelines and wear masks. In lieu of flowers, a memorial in Fred’s name will be established at a later date.