John L. Peskie
On Monday, God gained a farmer. John L. Peskie, beloved husband, father and grandpa died unexpectedly on Monday, March 6 at his home with his loving wife by his side.
John was born October 7, 1948 to the late John C. and Rose M. (née Pawlowski) Peskie. He graduated from P.J. Jacobs High School in 1966. He married the love of his life, Linda Gaboda on June 3, 1972 at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Mill Creek. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past June with much laughter and joy in a surprise celebration with their children and grandchildren.
John spent his days outside doing what he loved, following in his father’s footsteps, taking over the family farm at the age of 15. He truly had the gift of gab, willing to stop working to shoot the breeze with anyone who stopped over. He was a hard-worker, lighthearted, funny, kind, and loving man who influenced his children to become who they are today. He loved his Cheetos and his corny dad jokes, as well as his crazy analogies when it came to giving you life advice. He persevered through many hardships in his life, never complained, but always saw the sunshine and always saw the glass half full, no matter the situation.
John loved spending time with his wife and kids. He and Linda enjoyed many cruise adventures and especially loved the warmer weather. He loved when all his kids were home to help on the farm or drink a beer with him at the end of a long day.
John was also the epitome of what a grandfather should be. He enjoyed watching his grandkids with all their sports and activities, whether it was football, soccer, golf, volleyball, softball or hockey. He loved cheering the kids on, video camera in hand capturing every moment. He also loved seeing them perform in their concerts, musicals, and dances. Whatever their passion, he would be there to support them and cheer them on. John adored taking his grandchildren on every tractor or four-wheeler ride he could, often letting the kids take the wheel, teaching them the joy of farming and teaching many of them to drive.
John gleamed with joy when the grandkids would come over to visit the cows, play with the kitties and of course, more recently, “Bacon” the pig. He loved letting them feed the cows, helping with chores, and teaching them what it meant to earn a dollar, but inside beaming with pride that he could share the love of farming with them; memories they will all cherish forever.
John was an advocate for Donate Life, especially after his grandson (Ethan) received a liver transplant at a young age. He made his family aware of his wishes in advance, and with renewing his driver’s license, he was on the Donor Registry List. John’s final selfless act of kindness was to be a donor. Even though his organs weren’t able to be donated, his eyes, tissue, bone and cartilage were. The family was told he would be able to help 50-75 people by giving the gift of life.
Being a gentle man, he lived a quiet, but busy life. If you find yourself reflecting about John, take a walk in the country. Feel the breeze, the sun, and the gentle rains. Smell the freshly cut hay as you walk and stop to take time to enjoy the sounds. On a hot humid day you really can hear the corn grow. Walk in the field, you’ll hear it crackle. At night if you look to the sky, you’ll see the lights of heaven shining through the stars. Enjoy what God has given us.
Survivors include his wife, Linda. His three children, Daniel (Sandy) Peskie, Gail (Steve) Burant, and Steven (Angela) Peskie. He is further survived by his brother Paul Peskie and six grandchildren; Danielle (Patrik) Perner, Addison and Carter Peskie, Connor and Ethan Burant, and RaeLynn Peskie. Other survivors include nieces, nephews, and cousins. John was preceded in death by his parents John and Rose Peskie, his brother Peter Peskie and father-in-law Arthur Gaboda.
The family would like to thank the First Responders and Portage County Sheriff’s Office for their efforts.
The family would also like to thank the Pisarski Funeral Home for their care and assistance during this difficult time.
Visitation will be from 9 a.m. on Saturday, March 11 at the church until the time of service. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. at St. Bartholomew’s Catholic Church, 2493 County Road M, Stevens Point. Rev. Dennis Stanchik will officiate.
Burial will follow in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established at a later date. Pisarski Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family. Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.pisarskifuneralhome.com
Every farmer puts his land to rest for the winter. On spring’s horizon it is brought back to life. God has put this farmer to rest, and with a spring in his step, Iris in hand, he walks the horizon to a new life.
